Originally Posted by Wrathmonk
I thought the F35 had no AD role as such (other than it's own self protection as it 'fought' its way in and out)
One of the required performance items for F-35 (since it is the F-16 replacement for the USAF and F/A-18A/C replacement for the USN/USMC) was always to "equal or exceed the air-to-air capabilities of current models of F-16* aircraft".
The reports from the evaluations of the program indicate that it has indeed "exceeded" the A-A capabilities of the aircraft it is designed to replace.
Funny that.
* you know, the aircraft much of NATO and many other nations in the world currently rely on as their primary AD fighter (as well as A-G striker)?
Which much of NATO is planning to replace with F-35, which will become their new primary AD fighter (as well as A-G striker)?