Do not knock Russian military equipment. Their tanks, planes and guns pretty much match anything the west has.
Russian tanks have always been the best. In fact, as far as tank design goes the west is only starting to think along the lines the Russians were thinking along in the 1940's.
Russian aircraft are top notch, look at the Mig29 and the Mig37. Not to mention the Su27.
And Russian guns, you can bury an Ak47 leave it for a year then come back and dig it up and it will still work. Unlike the SA80 which jams if you take it within 100 yards of a sand pit and if the temperature varies more than 4 degrees from room temp. Bring back the SLR!!!

Basically Russian equipment is cheap, tough and lasts.
Ah yes, and on the original subject, I think the Commanche was an ugly bird. The Apache still works well. Can take damage and I don't think it's any less vulnerable than any other helicopter.
The Typhoon, I have mixed feelings for this. I don't really like the plane its self. But I realise that we need to replace the Tornado's. And well, the Typhoon seems to be able to do the jobs of both the GR1 and the F3 so why not use it?
I think the JSF is a complete waste of money. Give BAe a few million quid and the Harrier and it will be as good as the JSF ever will be.
I too believe the day of the dogfight is over. I mean honestly tell me, when was the last time two opposing aircraft had a fight? It has to be the first Gulf war at least.
Craig, a plane might look good on paper but in reality things can be far different. Comparing the Typhoon to the Rafale just on stats will not solve anything.