200+ is a given, IMO. But LCA MK2 could be the perfect panacea for most of our reduced squadron problem. Due to the threat of a 2-front war, we need both quality and quantity. MK2, thanks to being a single-engined jet has much reduced maintenance, fuel costs, life-cycle costs, high-surge and sortie rates etc. It also has CAP endurance of 2 hours on just internal fuel, much reduced RCS when compared to MK1 as well. The advantages are numerous. If we are smart then ordering this jet in huge numbers is a no brainer choice. Let's see.
Mk2 is already so delayed by multiple reasons that Mk1A got additional orders (97 nos) eating into potential MK2 numbers.
This 83 + 97 = 180 numbers being built at 24/years in production facilities. Assuming we made 30 already.. 150 takes about 6 years to complete production and move into Mk 2 production. 2032 + we are looking at..
Mk 2 production will continue until TEDBF gets ready.. assuming 6+6 years from now, we got 6×24 = 144 numbers of Mk2.
Only way higher number achievable is when TEDBF is delayed, and mk2 continues production like Mk1A doing..
Your target of High numbers is possible if we start private sector additional line ..
We can start production earlier ,no need to wait mk1A to complete its run.
8 minimum ( 16 preferably ) + 24 thereafter making it 32 to 40 × 6 = 192 to 240 numbers.
Then convert part of the line to TEDBF.
After the first flight, let's see if there are talks about private line for MK2.


