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Old 31st Oct 2001, 11:43
  #6 (permalink)  
Didntdoit
 
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Middle East
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Arrow

Saddo Formation Check in.

The US Navy realised a while back that the luxury of having dedicated aircraft for dedicated jobs on deck was one that could no longer be afforded. In addition, the main threat to the carrier group, the long-range, cruise missile-toting bomber is not a sight one sees every day, anymore.

Consequently, the role of the F-14 became an expanded one. The Tomcat has been integrated with the Lantirn targeting pod (ala F-16 and F-15E) and is generally able to tote a minimum of 2 LGB under fuselage. And this whilst maintaining some air-to-air capability.

The term 'fighter' in the air-to-air sense is becoming increasingly dated, and seems to be given to any design that is single or two-seat, has one or to large engines and carries AAMs. However, as we know, the JSF is primarily a platform for 2 x 2000lb-class PGMs. A more accurate term I'm not sure of, but one for debate.

Where did I put that box?
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