There are corners of the internet that’ll be very upset to read this.
@AlexHollings52 I have my issues with the JSF program, but not the end result aircraft, which is very effective. 4th gens just don't stand a chance against F-35s or F-22s unless (as you have pointed out), the deck is stacked against them during training.
@AlexHollings52 But but the F-50 took out an F-22 😆
I think it is reasonable to assume at this point that the US will field 6th gen before Europe fields a domestically developed 5th gen, if they ever do. I get the feeling most of Europe would be just fine buying mostly US planes if it means much better capability vs what they could otherwise afford (except France of course). The F35 concept of bringing in partner nations to share the financial load is a good concept though and we should be trying to do that where possible to stretch our dollars.
@AlexHollings52 I regard this as fantastic news!
@AlexHollings52 RAFALE fans about to use this as evidence typhoon is bad.
@AlexHollings52 The F-35's main issue is lack of ordinance storage to remain stealthy. If it's outnumbered it only has two bays then it just hides. It would be smarter to be able to remove the lenses while in the air as well just in case of an unplanned threat.