PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - F-35 Cancelled, then what ?
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Old 26th Dec 2010, 14:07
  #127 (permalink)  
ORAC
Ecce Homo! Loquitur...
 
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The JSF was seen as the last manned bomber as UAVs would form the next generation.

The JSF needs F-18 Growler EW support to penetrate double digit defences, and both need AAR and other support. UAVs will be able to operate in that environment without risking crew, and with expected 48-72 hour endurance.

The problem for the JSF is that it's slipped so far to the right than UAVs able to perform those roles will be available around the same time it's now planned to enter service.

There's a case for a limited JSF buy, to ensure a fallback option if the UAVs prove to problems, probably around the size of the F-22 force.

But I think the majority of the purchase will be scrapped and replaced by the X-45/47 etc.
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