Air Superiority: Is the F-35 Aircraft Worth the Cost
Abstract
This research paper evaluates the United States air superiority capabilities along with emerging threats and other world capabilities. The research will be used to determine the value of the F-35 aircraft and its significance to the United States air superiority. The evaluation framework will be used to assess the health of the current fleet, enhancements provided to legacy aircraft, and emerging world military capabilities and threats. The F-35 program is over budget and behind schedule undergoing the heavy scrutiny of its existence. Despite the high price tag of the F-35, the findings will conclude if the F-35 should be pursued for production. The evaluation exposed an aging fleet with vulnerabilities that are increasing consequentially intensifying maintenance and cost. Red Flag exercises demonstrated the F-35 intensifies the capabilities of Fourth Generation aircraft. The F-35 can find, detect, track, engage and destroy its target while sharing everything it sees with other aircraft and operation centers. Emerging threats from China and Russia have been aggressive leaving the United States facing security challenges. China and Russia are recapitalizing their aging fighter fleets by investing in their own Fifth Generation aircraft. This evaluation concluded that air superiority in the future would be reliant on technologically advanced aircraft making the production of the F-35 essential.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1054259
Entities
People
- Jetta Abplanalp
Organizations
- Air Command and Staff College