If the airframe wasn't representative of the operational model, what was the point of the exercise?
You didn't read the item I quoted, did you? The AIRFRAME was representative. But that's it. The REST of the package (like avionics, display systems, stealth, sensors, sensor fusion, weapons, etc) was not. They were testing the basic AIRFRAME (including its control systems), not the entire aircraft as a weapon system. I'll wager that a WWII vintage Zero fighter can turn inside an F-35. That does not make the Zero a superior weapon system.
KenV, I wish you had indicated whom you were quoting there. Without seeing the context I would agree with you entirely.
https://www.f35.com/news/detail/join...g?sf10503378=1