Vertega V-13

The Vertega V-13 Firestorm ( Vertega V-13 Tűzvihart) is a joint VSO and Granzerian supersonic, stealth multirole fighter developed by the Vertega Corporation as a low-cost alternative to the V-12 Tempest. The program is spearheaded by Granzery, holding 80% of shares, and was joined by other VSO nations in 2010 for the remaining 20% of the shares. The aircraft has similar capabilities to the larger V-12 Tempest, for approximately half the cost, the V-13 is cheaper to operate than the V-12, making it a more attractive option than the V-12 for most VSO members.

Stealth
Measures to reduce radar cross-section on the V-13 include airframe shaping such as alignment of edges, fixed-geometry serpentine inlets that prevent line-of-sight of the engine faces from any exterior view, and attention to detail such as hinges and pilot helmets that could provide a radar return. The V-13 was also designed to have decreased radio emissions, infrared signature and acoustic signature. The V-13L model in current development also makes use of fiber-mat and other stealthy, radar-absorbent materials to further increase the stealth capabilities of the aircraft while maintaining a low cost of operation.

Variants

 * V-13A: Standard production variant.
 * V-13AK: Export version with downgraded radar and stealth.
 * V-13AT: Carrier-capable version to enter service with the GRN by late 2020.
 * V-13L: Upgraded variant with greater stealth capability under development, expected to enter service in 2021. Known as Firestorm-II
 * V-13LT: Carrier-capable version of the V-13L to enter service with the GRN by late 2020.

Operators

 * Granzery: The Granzerian Air Force operates approximately 48 V-13 fighters, with a further 152 on order, last unit expected to be completed in late 2024.
 * Volgaria: The Volgarian Air Force operates 26 V-13 fighters for initial testing with plans to acquire more being discussed. Total number to rise to 50 by the end of 2020.