Originally Posted by Spaz
I'm sure whatever the result of the F-35C hook redesign that the USN will continue to regularly inspect all aspects of their arrestor gear / hook / aircraft combinations for any maintenance required.
Of course, that's normal practice, even for shore-based ac. This aspect of the hook saga is realy nothing new and certainly not special to the F-35, or indeed the A4. Hook shoes wear (better than the runway/deck taking all the damage) and the leading edge sharpens. They replace the hook (or, better, just the shoe) and/or extend its life by reshaping it. I'm surprised thes is seen as something new.