Time to rebuild the SPAD.
Time to rebuild the SPAD.
Seriously doubt a tough, radial engine like the Wright R-3350 exists anywhere. That would relegate you to mounting a turbo-prop like the Super Tocano. One fragment in the compressor section and I think you lose that aircraft. Radials regularly returned with a cylinder shot off.
I to though of the Skyraider, also the P-47 and the F4U Corsair. And thanks for the reminder of the A4D Skyhawk, which was just recently retired from a couple of air forces.
Realistically, I expect the 3 designs that are being offered are based upon current trainer aircraft that are in current production with aviation mechanics already trained on the airframes and the turbo- or pure jet engines, especially the latter as a deciding factor.
It would be interesting to see a comparison of the classic 4 I listed with the 3 being tested.