More delays for the F-35

[Courtney Mil]

Here's the reason, Gannet. The hook design is part of the stealth so is recessed. Even if this weren't the case, the hook cannot practically extend much further back due to the reheat nozzle and engine efflux when stowed. Hence they're looking at an extending hook so that it will fit the current recess and extend further back when lowered. This gets complicated, though, because you need it to return to its correct length to re-stow the hook after landing.



Hope this helps,

Courtney