[Tallguy]

The F-35 does not use the same vectored thrust system as the Harrier. Instead it uses a ducted fan system to produce thrust in the vertical. My understanding is that the Harriers crash rate had a lot to do with unbalanced thrust vectoring and the fatal roll that this created on landing.

BTW, The unsuccessful Boeing JSF candidate, did use a vectored thrust system similar to the Harrier's.

[tjwmason]

My understanding is that the Harriers crash rate had a lot to do with unbalanced thrust vectoring and the fatal roll that this created on landing.

Much of the problem was sorted out. When the Harrier first leapt onto the scene computers could send little white blobs around in a game of quasi-tennis but not much more. As the Harrier was around for longer, it could be fitted with computer systems which allowed much better management of the thrust, and thus far better safety.

[SJSAMPLE]

From the films I've seen, the fan system of the Marine F-35 is far superior than the thrust vectoring of the Harrier. However, other than safety, my concerns about range and armenment (among others) is what drives my dislike for VSTOL or STOVL aircraft. The Harrier isn't particularly good at any of its roles, but the USMC is focused on driving towards a future aircraft that can adequately perform air combat and close air support missions. The Marine F35 is a step up, but it still lacks (greatly) when compared to the other F35 variants.