What's most interesting is that it is a line of sight system which begs the question on how close this gateway has to operate in topographically challenged environments.
What to do with missions deep behind enemy lines?
a series of gateways, sat-link, anything else???
What will all this mean for us, the smaller air forces?
Are we going to have to purchase, maintain and operate this extra feature to be able to make full use of our F35's abilities or are we only supposed to operate it in cooperation with the big boys (US, UK, ???), also undoubtedly we're going to have to go for every update, adjustment and serious maintenance issue to the original US (Northrop) supplier, most likely with the same legal limitations that come with the F35.
I'm sorry but this sounds like one more reason for us to invest in Stand off weapons , drones and a less complex fighter iso the F35 total package.
edit 4 spelling
Last edited by kbrockman; 21st May 2013 at 11:46.