We gave both. But we aren’t getting any more 22’s. They shut down the production line and put it in mothballs. The F-15 line is still active (mostly from foreign sales). So what we have, we are stuck with. So why not make them the best they can be. Upgrades are good.
You are correct, the racing adage of “run what you brung” is applicable when the bullets start flying. The idiots who stopped production of the F-22 should be brought up on charges. The F-15 with updates and extended airframe life will be good for a while longer. The F-35 may turn out OK, however I feel that it will continue to under deliver for some time to come.
Pilot less aircraft are the future.