What the hell is a private enterprise?

Chapter 294 Threat (4400 monthly votes in April)

"Huh? Buying A4?"

Robert looked at his subordinate blankly, wondering if he was joking.

McDonnell Douglas is currently merging with Boeing, and he has been busy with various equity battles and issues such as retaining product line personnel, and has not been involved in the day-to-day operations for a long time.

However, this matter is somewhat special, and the subordinates believe it is necessary to inform the president:

"Just now, a company called Gaijin Heavy Industry from Dongda contacted us through Hongdu Company, hoping to purchase the A4 attack aircraft and obtain authorization to copy it."

Robert asked in confusion, "Is Gekkin Heavy Industries a military enterprise?"

Subordinate: "No, they are just a privately-owned shipyard, but they also operate a scenic area."

"what?"

After a long explanation, Robert finally understood what Geigin Company did and its ultimate goal.

He said somewhat uncertainly:
"So, in order to give tourists more experiences, they decided to replicate the A4 Skyhawk."

And this is just the action of a private company, unrelated to the government?

The subordinate nodded: "At least that's what we see."

"Bullshit, this must be an April Fool's joke!"

Robert is unaware that Geigin has over a dozen A4s. In reality, the intelligence Smith transmits must first be verified and analyzed by the Western Pacific regional station, then submitted to the local comprehensive analysis, and finally verified with McDonnell Douglas.

Not only are the procedures complex, but there are also many more high-level transactions in the queue.

Tang Wen directly asked Zhao Yaohua to send the inquiry in the early morning, which happened to be the morning in the US, making it much faster than the IAA's efficiency.

Robert was skeptical, but with Hongdu Aviation's confirmation, the chances of it being a prank were really low.

He then looked at the information about Gekin Company and discovered that they had also replicated some cruisers and destroyers from Japan, as well as a large number of F4F, SBD and even B25.

"Were those F4F and piston aircraft data also purchased by Geigen from Grumman?"

Subordinate: "It doesn't seem so. They directly copied it. I think it's probably because the A4 is too complex as a jet aircraft, which is far beyond their capabilities."

Robert was starting to believe it; based on previous information, Geigin did indeed have a unique fondness for those old pieces of equipment.

Can McDonnell Douglas sell A4s?
Robert thought it wasn't a big problem at all. It was an old thing from the 50s. He could sell it to the University of Tokyo Navy, let alone use it as a show machine.

If the University of Tokyo were to actually introduce this thing as a carrier-based aircraft, Secretary Johnson would be laughing his head off.

After thinking for a moment, he asked:

"How many units do you want to buy? Does that include the assembly line?"

"They only expressed their intention to purchase four aircraft and license the technology, requiring a two-seater T/A4J that can carry tourists. They did not mention an assembly line."

"TA4J?"

Robert immediately realized what was going on: the TA4J was the carrier-based trainer version of the A4!

So, it's highly likely that the University of Tokyo Navy really wants to buy this thing to train pilots?
It makes sense when you think about it. The University of Tokyo doesn't have a good low-speed jet trainer, especially since it has a very vague understanding of carrier-based trainers. The A4 is simple to use and inexpensive, so it's normal for them to be interested in it.

He tapped the table; if that was the case, then he really needed to take it seriously.

Since the cancellation of Project Pearl, this is yet another attempt by them to bring in American aircraft.

Although it is a bit poor, Dongda University is developing rapidly and is a market with huge potential.

We're buying A4s now to use as trainer aircraft. Is it possible to buy a few more F4 Phantoms in the future?
Robert instantly understood: the fact that Shanghai Aircraft Industry Corporation (SAIC) in Shanghai was still working with McDonnell Douglas to copy the MD-82 passenger plane meant that McDonnell Douglas still had a chance to open up the military aircraft market!

Congress certainly doesn't want to sell them planes now, but who knows what the future holds?
He had made up his mind:
"If we want to imitate it, we need to buy at least one major overhaul line, import and assemble 15 aircraft, and require full guidance from McDonnell Douglas."

We should still have assembly lines for refurbishment, right? Disassemble one line and add parts from 15 more aircraft, along with corresponding spare parts.

"We can only refurbish TA4J using old parts, which would cost $4000 million including spare parts, $1500 million for the assembly line and technical guidance, and then there's the licensing for imitation... No, Congress won't approve that."

Of course, they can also just buy the aircraft, starting at a minimum of 12 for $3600 million, with some accessories and training included.

Robert believed that the price was quite reasonable, not much more expensive than selling it to the Imperial Navy.

Subordinate: "This transaction may require special approval."

"Of course, you can tell Gaijin your price first, and I'll take care of the rest."

Robert didn't think it was a big problem. He believed that if he could close another arms deal, he would have more say in the deal after the merger with Boeing.

……

Minister Johnson received two pieces of information at the same time.

A document forwarded by the IAA stated that Smith discovered that almost half of the A4s from the All-Star team were present at the University of Tokyo, and they were identified as A4E models.

Another document states that McDonnell Douglas informed the senator of Geigin's purchase intentions, believing it to be a front man, when in fact the Type 011 aircraft carrier's carrier-based aircraft training unit needed trainer aircraft.

The first intelligence report almost confirmed from the photos that it was a real aircraft, but it was unclear whether it could fly. Smith was not an aircraft expert and could not give a definitive answer.

Then McDonnell Douglas wanted to sell, since the A4 was not sensitive and could make money, but this action was a little bit like aiding the enemy, so Johnson had to give his opinion.

Strictly speaking, the TA4J is still in service with the Empire, serving not only as a trainer aircraft for some cadets but also as the adversary aircraft for Topgun Squadron.

Of course, Topgun now has real enemy aircraft. Previously, the Empire also bought 15 J-7IIs and 1 J-7M.

As for the A4 in the Greater Bay Area, Johnson has considered many possibilities, the most likely being from Siam, who also purchased an A4.

Besides, it's also possible that it was obtained through those big-spending dogs, since the A4 itself isn't a highly classified aircraft.

The origins of the dozen or so A4s definitely need to be investigated, but it's not a high priority.

However, the thought that carrier-based pilots on both sides of the ocean would be trained on the same type of trainer aircraft in the future gave Johnson a strange feeling.

He himself didn't have much of a problem with it, but the matter could be big or small, and it still needed the president's approval.

Before submitting his opinion, Johnson decided to convene a meeting with his subordinates and staff to discuss it.

……

"Hey~"

"hiss."

"Oh……"

Seeing Yan Jian sighing and fidgeting, Tang Wen said:
"Stop sighing, it's no big deal. Look how happy they are!"

The two are now sitting on the grass beside the runway. To their left is the piston-engine aircraft that still receives tourists, and to their right is the A4 hangar, which appears to be completely enclosed but is actually packed with people.

The happiest person after this matter was reported was the carrier-based aircraft unit, which was undergoing arduous training, and they rushed over almost immediately.

Yan Jian: "A whole day has passed, why haven't we heard anything?"

Tang Wen: "This is a deal worth millions of dollars, so it's normal for it to be slow. Besides, we might not even be able to sell it."

"Can we really buy it?"

"Wouldn't it be stupid not to make money if you could?"

As the two were chatting idly, Zhao Hande strolled over and pointed at Tang Wen:

"You little rascal, you can't even have a peaceful New Year."

Tang Wen looked utterly dejected: "I've already tried my best to salvage it. Next time, let's just pack it at the shipyard."

"Is this a question of where to put it?! You should have given a heads-up if you brought this in."

Those guys in Hongdu are clueless; they've been taking orders and making renovations, yet nobody above them knows!
This has caused such a huge mess that I don't know how to handle it. What do you suggest we do?

"How about I compensate you with a battleship?"

"Think beautifully!"

Yan Jian sat up abruptly, his PTSD kicking in as soon as he heard those three words.

"Don't want battleships? Then you can tow a few A4s away, I have no objection."

"..."

Zhao Hande kept staring at him, so Tang Wen could only surrender.

"Okay, I'll definitely announce it next time you bring these things in."

"That's more like it. By the way, you're going to pay for the A4, right? McDonnell Douglas's reply is here."

As Zhao Hande spoke, he pulled out a stack of documents entirely in English and handed them to him. Tang Wen had no interest in reading the complicated documents on them and directly flipped to the last page to look at the price quote.

One, ten, hundred, thousand, ten thousand... how many?
Tang Wen almost jumped up, pointing at the numbers above and exclaiming:
"This piece of junk, the A4, is going to sell for two or three million US dollars, and they're even offering a minimum of 12 aircraft. It's robbery!"

Miscalculated.

In Tang Wen's memory, the price of an A4 in the 70s was about $80, but now only refurbished models are available, and even with inflation, he thinks it would only cost a little over a million.

As a result, once McDonnell Douglas was sold, the price more than doubled.

The $5500 million investment in the overhaul line and the $3600 million investment in aircraft alone were far from what he had envisioned.

It's not that I can't afford it, but... it's unnecessary!
"So? Time to pay."

Zhao Hande reached out his hand.

"No way, how can it be so expensive? They're selling refurbished, secondhand items as brand new!"

"Otherwise, why do you think they make money? If they weren't making huge profits, would they be called a military-industrial complex?"

"Okay, I'll give it to you!"

"I knew it... huh?"

Zhao Hande wondered if he had misheard.

Tang Wen sneered, "It's just a mere few tens of millions of US dollars, is it something I can't afford?"

"You really want to buy it?"

"Just a pittance!"

Tang Wen said confidently, "I can easily make back the money by dismantling a battleship and selling it for scrap metal. It's no big deal."

The two people next to him almost coughed up blood; so that's how it works.

But... don't tell me, really don't tell me.

The steel used in battleships is of very high quality, and the value of dismantling a massive ship weighing tens of thousands of tons is quite high.

Yan Jian was unsure if he was joking:

"Really dismantling the steel?"

"Yeah, you guys aren't buying, and I have plenty of aircraft carriers, destroyers, and cruisers. If I didn't lack the license to sell picric acid explosives, I could have made my money back."

This answer left both of them speechless. They thought McDonnell Douglas's exorbitant prices were outrageous enough, but this was even more outrageous.

"Shut up!" Zhao Hande hurriedly urged.

"Is this how you do things? Doing business involves bargaining, exchanging bargaining chips, not buying groceries!"

"Then do you have any ideas?" Tang Wen asked back.

"There really is, but you have to do me a favor first. Don't worry, you definitely won't lose out."

"What's the deal?"

Zhao Hande: "Didn't you brag last time that you could get any plane? You can't just say no to the Air Force and Army about that multi-billion dollar agreement; you have to see the actual stuff."

The Army wants Black Hawks or Chinooks, while the Air Force wants high-thrust transport aircraft and radar technology for early warning aircraft.

Of course, providing some photos or evidence first is sufficient; absolutely do not suddenly bring in the actual item. Meeting these two requirements is enough.

The higher-ups are also a bit scared. Bringing in an A4 can keep things under control, but if an F-14 is suddenly brought in, that would be a huge problem.

Even if you're extremely envious of advanced equipment, you must now proceed with caution.

Tang Wen thought about it and didn't think it would be too difficult. At worst, he could just catch more submarines and cast a wide net.

"Okay, then tell me what you plan to do?"

Zhao Hande: "Your method is too clumsy; there's an easier way."

……

Tuk Tuk.

"Teacher Feng, Teacher Feng?"

Feng Qianjun looked up and saw that it was the new young woman in the company. He quickly pulled his feet back from the table.

"Oh, it's Xiao Huang. What's up?"

"Director Sun asked you to come to a meeting and said to remember to bring paper and pen."

"right away."

Feng Qianjun didn't think too much about it. He grabbed his things and went into the conference room. As soon as he opened the door, he realized something was wrong and tried to back away, but it was too late.

Two people rushed out from both sides and forced him into his seat. Feng Qianjun was almost in tears.

"I'm telling you, please let me go. Go find Old Geng, he's smarter than me."

"Stop talking, Teacher Feng, I have a task for you, hurry up and do it."

Knowing he couldn't escape, Feng Qianjun breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing the mission.

This isn't a formal report; I won't be appearing on camera. It's just writing a few tabloid articles.

Although the above content is also strange, it is much luckier than Lao Geng, who stays at home all the time.

……

Hongdu.

Inside the closed hangar, the A4E that Tang Wen had sent over had already been mostly dismantled.

The first full-size prototype of the custom-made two-seat cabin has been completed and is awaiting hoisting and testing.

However, right now, Zhao Yaohua and a bunch of engineers are just sitting there sighing in frustration.

Who knows if this thing was brought in without being reported?

Zhao Yaohua just got a good scolding and only then did he realize that this batch of A4s were smuggled goods.

More than a dozen A4s! How could those be carried out by fire?
Now that the higher-ups know that Hongdu has even obtained the design data, they have given them a task: to become familiar with this batch of A4Es and be able to withstand the interrogation from the original engineers.

They thought they'd make a fortune, but it turned out to be a hot potato.
Zhao Yaohua sighed, looking dejectedly at the endless pile of paper documents, and said to everyone:

"Nobody should leave today. Let's stay up all night memorizing the materials."

The atmosphere in the entire hangar instantly turned deathly still, and everyone felt as if they were entering a nightmare.

……

On the last day of January, an article suddenly appeared in the Shipborne Weapons Weekly.

The content states that the 011 aircraft carrier's air wing has no trainer aircraft available, which greatly hinders the training progress, and suggests that China could reverse-engineer the A4 as a trainer aircraft.

Besides the A4's simplicity, reliability, stable performance, and ease of operation, the most crucial reason is the availability of domestic models for reference.
During the years the US was in Annam, it lost more than 300 A4s of various types. Many of the wreckages were transferred to the country and studied, including the wreckage of F4 Phantoms.

A4 is relatively simple and not difficult to imitate.

The article was signed Feng Qianjun, but it didn't cause much of a stir; it was simply considered a commentator's idle whims.

However, McDonnell Douglas, who was monitoring the University of Tokyo's response, noticed this.

At that time, there was a McDonnell Douglas 82 assembly line in Shanghai. The person in charge there, Levi Strauss, was also a vice president. He was entrusted to temporarily oversee the introduction of the TA4J as McDonnell Douglas's representative in China.

It was at this moment that McDonnell Douglas learned that Geigin actually owned more than a dozen A4s, and he was immediately annoyed and asked Levi to investigate.

When Levi saw this news, he sensed something was wrong and immediately contacted Gekin Company to demand an explanation for the existence of A4 in the Greater Bay Area.

Tang Wen replied that it wasn't the real aircraft, but a high-scale model of the plane.

Levi's, of course, didn't believe it easily and bought plane tickets directly.

Having spent so long in Shanghai, arriving in Levi's City felt like stepping into the countryside.

Tang Wen offered him a very generous car service, but he didn't care and just asked to go to the hangar immediately.

Once he led the pilots and engineers into the hangar, he immediately began inspecting the "models".

The pilot they brought was a McDonnell Douglas test pilot who had flown the A4 and sensed something was wrong as soon as they met.

He opened the cabin door, and after a few operations, the cabin was powered on and a cluster of indicator lights lit up, accompanied by the faint hum of the cooling fan.

The test pilot was taken aback, then blurted out:

“Fuck, this is an ancient version of the original control system, a cockpit layout from at least twenty years ago.”

Levi looked at Tang Wen.

"Models, they're all models!"

Tang Wen's expression remained unchanged.

Without ground crew assistance, the test pilot was unable to start the engine, so he climbed directly onto the back of the aircraft and crawled straight into the air intake.

After a while, he came out and asked again:

"Is there an engine installed inside?"

"We are a high-quality military tourism site, and it is reasonable to restore some of the original features."

Tang Wen said confidently, and Yan Jian, who was accompanying him, nodded frantically.

Levi: "..."

He pointed to his own nose:
“Mr. Tang, I’m a foreigner, not a fool.”

Levi, who spends most of his time in China, speaks fluent Chinese, which made Tang Wen a little embarrassed. He then led him aside.
"plum,"

"My name is Levi's, Levi's is my full name."

"Okay, Li, to tell you the truth, the A4 has been successfully copied by Gaijin Heavy Industry and Hongdu Aircraft Institute."

You know, we have a lot of wreckage to refer to.

Levi's was a little angry: "Then why do you still want to buy an A4? Are you kidding me?"

"of course not."

Tang Wen began to tell his story: "Actually, you know that there are no patent issues with copying military aircraft because it has nothing to do with the market, right?"

Although annoyed, Levi nodded.

Civilian products can be sued for patents, but military products... copying is a matter of mutual skill, and no one cares or can care.

The equipment developed by various countries over the past few decades has simply been copied from each other.

Tang Wen: "Hongdu started imitating it a long time ago, but it was terminated due to insufficient funds. Gaijin funded the project because they needed a performance machine, which is why you see these things now."

But we are a legitimate private company that supports McDonnell Douglas's intellectual property rights, so we'd rather pay for a license. Do you think that's the right thing to do?

Levi: "..."

"So you see, McDonnell Douglas wouldn't normally have made this money, but because of Gagkin, it will become a normal transaction between the two parties."

"So, McDonnell Douglas should thank you?"

Levi said somewhat uncertainly.

"Right, that is it!"

Tang Wen had an expression that suggested he was a promising student:

"Look, we can manufacture them ourselves now, so there's no need to buy a major overhaul line. McDonnell Douglas can just sell a license and a couple of planes as a token gesture. How about five million US dollars?"

Levi's turned around and started to walk out.

Yan Jian, standing nearby, immediately became anxious and tried to step forward to stop them, but Tang Wen stopped him and then shouted loudly:

"Ten percent!"

Levi paused for a moment, then continued walking forward, with the test pilot and engineer following closely behind.

"fifteen."

"Twenty! And the other two friends will each get two!"

The last sentence was spoken in English.

The three who left turned back the way they came.

Levi's face was grim as he coldly said:
"You plagiarists are actually threatening the original manufacturer! This is a provocation!"

Tang Wen seemed not to hear, and opened his palm to reveal several silver coins:

"It contains over 99% silver and can be exchanged for any currency you want at any bank, or you can provide your account and I will exchange and transfer the money."

The daring test pilot reached out, picked up a silver coin, bit it with his teeth, and looked at Levi with a strange expression.

The latter remained unmoved, only muttering curses under his breath:

"You think you can buy us off with money?"

Tang Wen also lowered his voice:
"Li, we still have the remains of ghosts."

Levi's brows furrowed even deeper, and Tang Wen quickly changed the subject:
"Please don't be hostile towards us. In fact, Geijin doesn't care about money. We have a lot of room for cooperation."

(End of this chapter)