“Shouldnt simplicity, maneuverability, engines capable of long range and good lifting ability plus good countermeasures and other factors be more important than speed?”
well, the thing is, most engines with good power output would likely make the plane using it go supersonic.
and the ability to go supersonic is not just abt speed, but also about energy. the faster a plane flies. the more energy it has to twist and turn, which in turn helps with manoverability.
“To acheive these speeds though takes the use of afterburner in most if not all cases, except for the F22 with its supercruise, and thus the use of a lot of fuel.In combat though high maneuverability, heavy external combat loads and need for range is generally preferable to speed so why the need for supersonic speeds in anything except recon aircraft like the Blackbird?”
well most a/c will jeterson all none-essentual loads before engaging in aa combat, so the extra load of weapons is not that big a deal in real life.
and anyhow, the afterburners are almost only used in short bursts in times of crisis, and it is generally preferible to have a plane that is a little bit more expansive but more serviverable then a cheaper plane that is likely to get shot out of the sky as soon as it is seen by the enemy.
im sorry this reply isnt better worded, but im in a hurry and must go in a min. if there are things that i said that u cant understand, please point them out and i’ll reword them at a later time.
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