Originally Posted by
Engines
To perhaps help move the thread off yet another discussion about F-35 merits and demerits:
Looking at the Tempest 'mock up' (in my own view, it's really not much more than a three dimensional doodle), does anyone share my view that this particular concept is probably not looking at operating from a QE class carrier? I'd offer the thought that any future UK combat aircraft programme should at least consider the need to be able to operate at sea.
Being able to operate at sea and being able to operate from a STOVL carrier are two very different things. Adding a vertical lift system would add tremendously to the cost and complexity of any aircraft, not to mention have a deleterious effect on range, payload, and performance. Adding CATOBAR capability to the aircraft would be much more doable, but that would entail extensively modifying the QE carriers.