I had always understood that the Harrier nozzles reduced the IR signature too, but we still needed an advanced defensive pod from Terma to operate in the manpad threat in Afghanistan. Tornados had a similar pod fitted when it took over, but in a high speed capable fairing.
The constant drive of evolving threats vs defences which F-35 will have to face throughout its operational life.
Kbrockman - your argument holds true for the RAF with Typhoon and F-35 operating together for the medium term. Also Australia with its Growler and F-35 combination. Canada's options are limited unfortunately.
Last edited by WhiteOvies; 10th Dec 2012 at 23:12.