JF,
Great post. I'll be calling them SSLs from now on.
Courtney,
I think what this discussion makes clear is that the F-35B (like the Harrier, and also like the V-22) can use its powered lift systems as well as aerodynamic (wing) lift to optimise its landing modes to achieve desired landing distances at various weights. (The USMC have a hard requirement for F-35B SLs to short land strips).
It's a neat trick and one that is achieved with extremely good handling characteristics, low pilot workload and improved safety. And it's largely down to the great input from the BAES team who designed the STOVL flight and propulsion controls, working with LM at Fort Worth and Pax River. I'd really like, just for once, to see their efforts recognised.
Best Regards as ever to those making this powered lift stuff work,
Engines