Gents,
It's interesting to see how many people automatically accept that F-35 RVLs and asphalt can't go together.
The F-35 propulsion system has been tested against a variety of surfaces, and there are definite issues with vertical landings (or vertical take offs) on asphalt. However, I'd place a reasonable bet that RVLs (or STOs) would not present a problem. The aircraft is moving forward at good lick, and the aft nozzle is not pointing directly at the ground for any serious period of time.
I very much agree that fast jet basing decisions have become intensely political - both 'grown up' politics (local economy, MPs, etc) and the RAF's own agenda to keep stations open. I've always been surprised how little scrutiny their 'basing rules', which limit numbers of aircraft at bases to amazingly low levels, have received. In truth, they are driven by a desire to maintain station command jobs and higher.
Best Regards as ever
Engines