HH, theres considerable truth in that post of yours.
The F-18A is a benchmark in taking the "all things to all people" idea to a curious conclusion, what with the "high/low" mix originally envisioned between it and the Tomcat. When the F-18E/F became the final follow on, no small criticism was levied in it keeping the same basic Type/Model/Series designation given the magnitude of the upgrade.
Osprey is of course legendary in that regard (much covered on the Rotorhead forums), as is that "littoral combat ship" thing.
F-111 may have set the trend in the gross flaws in the "joint, one size fits all" acquisition theory, though over time it turned into a very useful platform.
I won't go into the Seawolf and other programs by our submerged friends, nor DIVAD etc that our Army brothers went for.