So... the F-35B/C — even if it works as advertised — will still have to defend a very visible aircraft carrier from attackers. So when the attackers close with the carrier, they will also be closing with the F-35 BARCAP? Once within visual range, then what? I think they call that a “Dog Fight”.
As for the USAF’s F-35A, you can be fairly certain that some future president will impose “visual identification” requirements like LBJ did with the Sparrow-equipped F-4’s in Vietnam. Then the airforce jocks get to “Dog Fight” with similar disadvantages. At least the F-4 had thrust to burn.
“you can be fairly certain that some future president will impose “visual identification” requirements like LBJ did with the Sparrow-equipped F-4’s in Vietnam”
No. I won’t tell you why. Just no.