Quote:
Originally Posted by CCIP
It still continues to puzzle me how (and more importantly, why) Iran continues to operate such a complex aircraft when they have no support from the manufacturer and have to bend over backwards for spare parts and upgrades, especially when I can't see what capability the F-14 offers them that they couldn't get from something more accessible and easily-maintainable  |
1st:
Big honking air to air missiles:
2nd: It can hit Israel with only one mid air refueling while the Su-24 or F-4 needs 2-3.
edit: 3rd: The only "new" jets they've gotten "lately" were some MiG-29s and those are not in the most awe inspiring condition.
Its possible that if the Iranians get more accurate IRBMs and more SLCMs they might phase the F-14 out of service but I doubt it; I think they will run them in to the ground before getting rid of them.