Polish FA‑50s to soar with fake cockpits for combat edge
Polish FA-50 aircraft will be equipped with fake cockpits, which improve their odds in aerial combat. Here, we explain their exact use.
The South Korean company KAI, which manufactures the FA-50 aircraft, presented images of the planes in Polish colors two years ago, grabbing the attention of Polish social media users. On the lower part of the fuselage, an oval resembling a pilot's cockpit was noticeable. Let's remember what this feature is intended for.
Poland ordered 48 FA-50 aircraft, which in their current version have limited capabilities. However, the Ministry of National Defense assures that the FA-50PL version will be significantly more advanced, allowing for pilot training and conducting combat missions.
Fake cockpit in military aircraft
The fake cockpit is a solution used by some countries. Its purpose is to increase the aircraft's chances in aerial combat. This idea originated in the 1970s and is inspired by automimicry from the animal world, where spots resembling eyes confuse predators.
The pioneer of this concept was Keith Harris, associated with the Air Force Art Program. The goal of this initiative is to stimulate the artistic activity of creators who document the history of American military aviation in their works.
Canadians were the first to apply fake cockpits on their F/A-18A/B Hornet. Over time, this camouflage appeared on aircraft from other countries, such as the Italian AV-8B Harrier II and the American A-10 Thunderbolt II.
Practical solution
Fake cockpits have also appeared on Swedish Gripens and South African Atlas Cheetahs. Combined with darker rhombuses on the fuselage, they make it harder to identify the aircraft's contours quickly.
This solution aims to mislead the pilot of an enemy aircraft, which can be crucial in maneuverable aerial combat. The fake cockpit makes it challenging to assess the aircraft's position and maneuverability, potentially determining the outcome of the encounter.
