Glider
Captain
I am starting to read that the US have decided to cancel the F35B as a cost cutting measure which was going to replace the USMC Harriers, F18's and the RN Sea Harrier.
My guess is that the USMC will be given the latest F18's to replace the early F18 and Harrier that are currently in service. However this leaves the RN with a problem, as the new carriers we are supposed to be ordering, are reliant on the F35B which could leave us with a carrier and no planes. I would hate us to have to buy the Rafael to replace the F35 but it would seem to be the only other option.
Its all a little galling as the UK have contributed £2Bn to the development costs and right now the US Government will not let us have access to all the software that is needed to update of in some cases maintain the F35A for the RAF.
Has anyone else heard of this or am I totally off the mark which has happened before I will admit.
My guess is that the USMC will be given the latest F18's to replace the early F18 and Harrier that are currently in service. However this leaves the RN with a problem, as the new carriers we are supposed to be ordering, are reliant on the F35B which could leave us with a carrier and no planes. I would hate us to have to buy the Rafael to replace the F35 but it would seem to be the only other option.
Its all a little galling as the UK have contributed £2Bn to the development costs and right now the US Government will not let us have access to all the software that is needed to update of in some cases maintain the F35A for the RAF.
Has anyone else heard of this or am I totally off the mark which has happened before I will admit.