Is it not the case that the original decision to adopt the STOVL F-35B allowed some 'trades' in CVF performance? I understand that USN CVNs are capable of some pretty eyewatering (for a ship) speeds in order to recover damaged FW a/c by giving them suffcient wind over deck to recover if, for example, their flaps/slats etc. are inoperable.
Can CVF operate F18 safely with it's current powerplant? Is there a risk that yet another requirement change will drive extra cost (and delays) into the CVF programme?