[edpc]

The assumption being made is the Russian plane is stealty to our systems. Since stealth aircraft are not "invisible" - but only have a smaller radar signature, it's possible to upgrade the radar on older aircraft like the F-15, -16, and -18.

Besides, their aircraft is not slated for service until 2015. We'll have the F-35 entering service around the same time with over 2000 on order.

[pfflier]

Go ahead, tell us why the F-35 will be superior to an F-22.

While you do that I'll start writing the letters of condolence to the F-35 pilots' families, you can sign them.

[Tonytitan]

We'll have the F-35 entering service around the same time with over 2000 on order.

I wouldn't bet my life on that being the the number of planes bought by the DOD. The Navy is seriously thinking about backing out of the program in favor of the X-47B UCAV which is slated to start carrier trials sometime this year. And it might be a wise decision on their part.

The F-35C almost creates more problems than it solves. It's a big jet, which means it takes up more deck space and causes a reduction in the number of deployable jets. I read somewhere that the max number of C's a carrier could sail with is 44. The UCAV is smaller than an F-18C which means more available strike aircraft.

But the real drawback of the C is combat radius. It just doesn't have the legs the Navy is needing. I think it maxes out at 600km. The X-47B is estimated at 2000km depending on warload. And with it being a tailless design it has much better LO characteristics which makes it a better first-day deep strike weapon.

A better use of the Navy's money might be to max out the capabilities of the Super Hornet and team it with the UCAV.