Delete comment from: Elements Of Power
"Actually, my assumption is that there are good alternate products out there that can fulfill Canadian's defense need without breaking her wallet."
You attempt to cavil over the salient point of what a competitor "is". Obviously, any competitor to the JSF must meet Canada's defense needs, otherwise they wouldn't be a 'competitor'.
"Costs"
You presume the F-35 would be harder on the 'wallet' than other, lesser aircraft, without providing the basis. I understand your hesitance. If you provide your basis, it can be dispensed with. The important thing for a weapon system is to sufficiently meet a need at lowest Total Life Cycle Costs to get 'best value'. The only information available in the public domain are either cost estimates for the F-35 based upon legacy aircraft experience, or marketing materials from those who seek to supplant the F-35. You cannot make such an assertion without noting it is your opinion. Whereas those who are involved in the JSF program of record have access to information you do not and HAVE selected the F-35. Yet you make contrary assertions.
"How relevant will F35 be in 2020's battlefield & economy?"
Very. Ask the Users.
"How stealthy/survivable will F35 be, against a S300/400/500-graded IADS?"
Very. Ask the Users.
"How maneuverable will F35 be, compared to its contemporaries (Su35, Typhoon, J10)?"
Maneuverable 'Enough'. Read up on modern E-M Theory and air combat in general. Have some sources: http://elementsofpower.blogspot.com/2013/04/a-backgrounder-on-energy-maneuverability.html
How affordable will the JSF be, compared to contemporary projects (eg F18EFG/UCAV/Rafale x3)?
Most "Affordable" of all. None of what you list are "contemporary" to the F-35. Two are 4th Generation Targets and the third is a technology demonstrator that when brought to fruition will have a limited repertoire compared to a manned low observable weapon system. Since the targets will be shot down with increasing frequency and the UCAS won't be able to do the whole job, that makes the F-35 the most affordable of all.
Jun 2, 2013, 7:06:14 PM
Posted to Canada Cancels F-35?