Thanks for that GreenKnight, very informative.
I'm all for this. Dump the overpriced and over-regulated F-35 by the wayside and pick up a tried and tested machine that is loved by pilots and engineers alike.
The fact that America is willing to sell the F-18's at this point in the development of the F-35 surely says something.
Edit: I love it when they use terms like 'increased survivability.'