General conclusions of the CFE (formerly the AFDU):
Although the Hornet was designed for the role of a long range fighter, it is felt that the main requirement for such a fighter was not borne in mind during the designing stage.
The cockpit is too small to allow the average pilot to fly long endurance sorties with a reasonable measure of comfort. He is unable to relax his muscles by periodically changing the position of his body and legs, and such amenities as urine tube and arm rests are entirely lacking.
In the event of the failure of the single generator on the port engine, or the engine itself, the accumulators would rapidly become discharged due to the number of dependent services and the aircraft would then be without Gun Firing Control, Gunsight, Radio, R.I. Compass, Fuel Gauges, Radiator Flap Actuating Gear, Booster Pumps and all engine instruments. Even for peace time flying, loss of these services would constitute a serious hazard, especially in bad weather conditions. From a tactical point of view these disabilities would become progressively acute when the aircraft was used in the long range operational role; the greater the distance from the base, the less chance there would be of the pilot returning safely.
All of these hazards, added to that of single engine flying, would be eliminated if a continuous supply of electrical power were assured by the provision of a second generator on the starboard engine.
During long range escort duties the Hornet might be compelled to engage in combat with short range interceptor fighters of great speed and manoeuvrability. The excellent all-round view from the Hornet would afford the enemy small chance of achieving surprise.
The Hornet is not designed for long distance strikes or air to ground offensive support, but it is considered that this aircraft is suitable for this alternative role.
Although the Hornet has good acceleration, rate of climb and top speed, these qualities are not sufficient to provide full compensation for the relatively low rates of turn and roll. With such fundamental technical limitations the Hornet pilot would find himself inevitably at a serious tactical disadvantage.