Every major defense program has hiccups, every aircraft has unforeseen issues. There is no perfect aircraft that met all design goals (especially upon IOC). Time for some to admit the doom and gloom, and claims of inferiority were inaccurate. Obviously, as a program, the F-35 has a way to go to justify it’s expense. But if past predictions and projections are compared to reality, the program is on solid footing moving forward.
There was hardly ever doubt about the F-35 eventually reaching series production one day.. and hardly ever doubts about certain qualities it brings..
My personal issue with this thing was always two-fold.. 1. claims of a Raptor Mk2, only smaller 2. claims about 50mil a piece which completely erases any European competition.
The reality is as follows:
1. The F-35 is not a Raptor.. kinematically.. not even close.. not even close to a Typhoon, IMHO..
2. The F-35 is not cheaper than the rest.. also not visibly more expensive now that the AESAed Eurocanards (e.g. Raf F4) have visibly risen in price. But, even with those huge lots in the pipeline, you still need $2.3 billion for a dozen (export) F-35As..
That’s it.. Of course the F-35 has a solid future, backed up by all three US armed forces branches.. But as these two things have worked out by themselves, I hardly feel the urge to discuss this aircraft, anymore..
Sign In
