[RightWhale]

This aircraft would be a high maintenance item, so while it probably works as well as ever, maybe better, the new technology F-22 would be getting the attention of the maintenance budget. It would probably be of no interest as a hand-me-down to allies because of the intensive maintenance.

[NeonKnight]

Agreed. There are only a small handful of allies we would trust the technology with, and they probably have their budgets tied up in other projects.

while an effective weapons system, you probably don't get a whole lot of bang for your buck. Maintenance costs are probably exorbitant.

[Paleo Conservative]

It would probably be of no interest as a hand-me-down to allies because of the intensive maintenance.

Underneath the skin it is mostly standard F-15 and F-16 parts. I would think Japan would be interested in a squadron of these. Perhaps the Israelis could also use them too.

If you want on or off my aerospace ping list, please contact me by Freep mail.

[MediaMole]

Besides being high maintenance, all it does is drop two bombs and go home. It is a very specialized aircraft.

[Southack]

The U.S. is retiring fighters more advanced than other nations can field. That's a multi-generational technological superiority.

And yes, the F-117 should be given to Israel, Taiwan, and Japan...all of whom can afford to maintain them if desired, or fly them until they are unsafe if not.

They would also make a nice friendship gift to India.