A different view point:
The Air Force top brass are a bunch of bean counters that believe they can build and operate one aircraft that can meet the mission requirements of multiple roles.
However, the problem with an aircraft that can perform multiple roles is that it does not perform any one role very well.
“The Air Force top brass are a bunch of bean counters that believe they can build and operate one aircraft that can meet the mission requirements of multiple roles.”
And provide ground support from 35000 feet.
Jack of all trades, master of none.