I just used the "mission 1" that is in the spec, which was tested in flight test.
That is their configuration, not mine.
And the F-35 would also be able to benefit from drop tanks, refueling, ect. Compared to the F-16, F-18, the F-35 can carry a fair amount more payload.
One problem with tankers is they are vulnerable to enemy action, and so must be withheld my XX nautical miles. Sure, they could be pushed further forward, but then you get to add more fighters to defend the tankers, as well as doing what ever air force fighters do (normally defend their air base and train train train).
Fighters are fun. Bombers make policy. No fighter makes a good bomber. It can't. The physics doesn't work that way.
Fighters can down bombers, hence changing "policy".
No fighter makes a good bomber. It can't. The physics doesn't work that way.
Agreed. I think it is a mistake for the USAF to decommission the F-1117 (a misnomer to be sure...should have been the B-1117).