I agree, the stepping stones from C → are necessary until things like ECM/EW (saab arexis) is modelled, alongside a support feature like strategic datalink (jaaktlink or link 16) since they are core parts of what makes the JAS-39E so capable irl.
The NG represents the AESA, IRST, increased thrust and increased missile count without the risk of premature addition, it’ll also have an amazing FM if they add the NG without the enlargened fuselage
I mean, both Israel and Japan have selected the AN/APG-82(V)1 as the radar for their F-15 upgrades
Just listed them as possible options anyways, what plane they end up giving to Israel is up to Gaijin and Japan luckily already has the F-2 as their AESA plane