What do you feel is the alternative to sorting it and using it for 40 years or so?
Well John, I started this thread to generate exactly that discussion, and it seems to have worked !
Actually I would much prefer to see the F-35, including the 'B', succeed, with a view to their very advanced capabilities - those advocating 4th generation aircraft, and / or nailing on the F-35's systems, don't seem to have studied just what the aircraft has to offer or realise what's involved.
The snags with the 'B' re.heat pads etc sound a bit worrying though, but I can't imagine the temperatures & velocities have come as a sudden surprise to designers...
Plus there's the money already spent & experience gained - but I maybe have a more jaundiced view of politicians.
On second thoughts, in view of recent developments it would be impossible to have too low a regard for politicians, there used to a handy guillotine or wall with a gun opposite to deal with letting down one's country...