“And unfortunately, the F-35(B) [boondoggle] cannot penetrate modern Russian AA radar systems (associated with S300 and S400) successfully - only the F-22 can and perhaps the F-18. All others would have to turn back on being engaged - else be shot down.”
Should you really be sharing top-secret information on an open forum? heh
Actually, I’m sure you have no real idea of the truth of your statement, especially given your F-18 blatherings. The F-18 has no capability against SAMs except that conferred by jamming pods which can be carried by almost any aircraft.
I expect the F-35 is plenty stealthy enough to get within range of S300/400 batteries and take them out with standoff weapons. Even if not, F-22s or other SEAD assets could do the job before F-35s ingress to deliver weapons. Also don’t forget the decoy drones designed to draw fire from the various SAM systems, those have a role also.
I’m not a big fan of the F-35, at least without an upgraded engine, but let’s keep the criticisms grounded in reality.
Not TS by any means as it is openly available info, although some years out of date. Let’s keep the snark to a minimum, please.
I said a possibility not a certainty for the F-18. Note the difference.
NO. The 35 is nowhere near stealthy enough (nor was it designed to) to get anywhere near a 300PMU2 or S400 Triumf system before the Raptors come in and take out the acquisition radars - ranging out to 250 miles or more. You are also assuming that the 35s get by the swarms of MiGs and SUs - again not something the 35 was designed to do.
All those “stand off “ munitions which cannot fit within the weapons bay now hanging off the wings makes for low stealth, if any.
Drones can be jammed or compromised.
i wonder if potential ally customers also have the option of purchasing f-22s...