The cost of the aircraft, EW kits, radars, engines, spares, GSE, tech pubs, sims and other synthetic training gear, weapons package, tooling etc etc is A$3.9bn.
So the RAAF has bought an aeroplane we can take to war soon after work up and operational numbers in service ?
A capability that is in service and proven with our major allies, with the EW requirements to go to war without unreasonable restrictions, and will slot in nicely to any joint operations.
A fighter-bomber that even in those modest numbers, with other hopefully ironed out capabilities such as tankers and Wedgetail, presents the most capable force in the region- arguably equal to the Singaporians.
Let's buy another 24. With proven Growler technology to bolster the capability beyond anything in the region. Delivering a practical force at reasonable coin.
I don't think there is a regional threat, given the financial constraints at present, that could seriously threaten that kind of structure.
As more serious threats emerge in the next decade; JSF should be a better, more evolved risk than it is now.