Originally Posted by
Phil_and_Sand
Why would a stealthy aircraft want huge external tanks? The only reason is for a ferry, but if you are AAR capable the justification weakens.
Seriously? Most missions flown will not require stealth. And in most scenarios flown, longer legs or increased loiter capability will be a force multiplier. I would like the flexibility. Tanks off for first strike missions, and then tanks mounted for everything else once air superiority is established and stealth is no longer needed. If the need arises during the mission, tanks can always be jettisoned (even though some part of the tank pylon will remain on the wing, stealth to some degree will be re-established).