I would not be surprised if the RAAF also prefer the F-35C Variant due to there working Relationship with the USN and could possibly share carrier Desk space with both the USN and the RN new carrier.

Just a Thought

X-45 A Inert GPS-Guided Weapon Drop Demo

This Test was done in 2004 I would Guess to say that things have progress much further by now.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cA8EQ3dyB8c

Comment…Just Dropping my views on the nature of the Joint Strike Fighter and Strategic air Logistics. A lot has been stated and misaligned as to the cost and capabilities Of this new Generation air Platform the technologies and forward looking Engineering Concept will be hard for any inspiring Coalition to match much Like the Race to the Moon Get There Then What…The F-35 in final form will be the end of manned jet combat Aircraft as we know it so sit back and enjoy the ride this is truly to large for failure.

Lockheed gets funds for UK F-35 landing modification

Shipborne rolling vertical landing (SRVL)

Developed by the UK, the SRVL technique will enable the F-35B to return to an aircraft carrier’s deck carrying more weapons or fuel than possible when making a vertical landing.

Just in Time to keep the ‘B’ Alive

F136 Reaches Full Thrust In Afterburner Test

…With all the improvements in place, DiLibero says Engine 006 test results so far indicate performance and durability is exceeding design expectations and turbine inlet temperatures are cooler than planned. “So that’s more margin for durability, or power,” he adds. GE/Rolls-Royce declines to comment on the top thrust levels achieved in maximum afterburner, but the team previously said it anticipated an estimated 5% margin over the F-35’s baseline Pratt & Whitney F135 powerplant.

http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,212712,00.html

The above Article was Published back in March, 2010

Wrightwing I totally Agree Safety First

Hell That’sh Hyper Cursing

F136 Reaches Full Thrust In Afterburner Test

…With all the improvements in place, DiLibero says Engine 006 test results so far indicate performance and durability is exceeding design expectations and turbine inlet temperatures are cooler than planned. “So that’s more margin for durability, or power,” he adds. GE/Rolls-Royce declines to comment on the top thrust levels achieved in maximum afterburner, but the team previously said it anticipated an estimated 5% margin over the F-35’s baseline Pratt & Whitney F135 powerplant.

http://www.military.com/features/0,15240,212712,00.html

The above Article was Published back in March, 2010

Wrightwing I totally Agree Safety First

Better on the Test Bed than in the Air…Personally Being a Navy Man I Think the GE/Rolls F136 is the Better Power Plant and should be considered by the USN, RN and RAAF for the F-35C we Need the Added Thrust.