Lift fan versus direct or directed lift used on the Harrier and on Boeing's F-35 prototype:
Lift fan affords
(1) More fluid momentum for same energy input;
(2) Better matching of lift fan propulsor exhaust velocity to characteristic velocity needed for hover or vertical climb -- i.e. slower exhaust velocity;
(3) Much better and more compact design of engine with afterburner (reheat) module;
(4) Normal sized air intakes instead of overly large diameter intakes -- less drag and less radar reflections off compressor blades.
I must admit I was not aware of these aspects. Can you go into more detail about point 3 please?
The idea of transporting dead weight still rankles but I'll hold my peace until I'm more educated. Now what about the overly precious RAM paint?