It was a “peace divided” project, back from before China posed a credible threat and Russia looked like they were gonna actually try not being complete geopolitical psychos for a bit. All things considered, I think it’s matured into a remarkably capable weapon system given what it started as. Not to mention: despite its… somewhat lacking aerodynamics and kinematics, the connectivity (datalink), distributed systems, and sensor fusion that have become some of its core characteristics are genuinely game-changing.

I fully agree that it has some glaring flaws… but it’s also currently the 5th gen volume-production stealth fighter to beat, and nobody’s come close yet (yes, I’m including China’s J-20 and J-31; and no, as far as anyone outside of China has been able to determine, they are not as capable or stealthy as the F-35, and nowhere near the F-22 for stealth or air superiority).

bruh what the fuck are you talking about

latest batch f35s are cheaper than most 4th and 4.5th generation fighters

It’s basically paid for itself in total foreign sales and its not even in the top 3 for most expensive current generation fighters. The F-35 is a fucking triumph.

looking sexy 🥵

too late coward my pants already need changing