I agree that using number of sales by itself is not a strong argument due to the political arguments.
However:
Had the F-35 been so unpopular with the air forces around the world that some seem to think, I am sure we would have heard about it by now. But so far I am not aware of any air force that has expressed doubts about the performance of the F-35.
People have been sceptical about timelines, and about costs, and also about sharing of technology. But not technical capabilities. If you are aware of any “leaks” that indicate otherwise I would be very interested in hearing about it.
All the evals I have heard about so far have in general put F-35 on top when it comes to the technical part of the eval.
Remember the F-104 , from the same LM? Obviously the F-104 emerged “on top” (through various ways , i might add), however it’s actual capabilities …well…let’s say there weren’t exactly what they were claimed to be.
Old habits die hard . Are you going to tell me that all the current countries that ordered ( sort off ) the F-35 done so only because of how great this aircraft is? ( or rather , how great those powerpoints look ). Obviously , LM was perfectly honest and the US government didn’t not put any kind of back stage pressure, right? In other news, pigs can fly !
You will see, for the small countries (or with small airforces) that will be stuck with this F-35, it will be a nightmare. A very costly one. You will see. 🙂
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