It is so easy to criticise rather that be constructive and I feel
some of the criticism is somewhat unfair.(not all of it)
Are we the big spenders regarding the F-35 or are we just a customer that wants a specific aircraft for a specialist role?
What nation has the most aircraft carrier fixed wing fast jets? I would also suggest that the answer would be the same if I were to ask what nation has more carrier borne fixed wing fast jets than the rest of the civilised world's stock all added together?
That nation must surely have far more expertise, plus up to date operational experience to develop a modern platform far far quicker than anyone else?
Are things going smoothly, are things going to schedule? Unfortunately we all know the answer to those questions but before we get on our high horse about developing our own aircraft I would suggest we take a deep breath and look no further than:
To suggest the F-35 program should not have problems during this stage of manufacture is just plain wrong and grossly unfair.
I want the F-35 program to succeed and I look forward to the day it becomes operational and if that means I am in the minority, then so be it.
Apologies for the rant but it's been a bad day