Publication

This paper discusses what a delay in the acquisition of a F-35 Joint Strike Fighter fleet and resulting ‘interim’ purchase of Super Hornet and Growler electronic warfare aircraft would mean for Australia’s air combat capability and its defense budget. According to the author, Australia’s government can either proceed with the acquisition of more F-35s and accept the costs of operating a mixed fleet of three aircraft types, or alternatively, decline further F-35 purchases and consolidate the existing fleet. The author discusses the benefits and shortfalls of each of these options for Australia's combat capability and its defense budget and explains which one of these options seems more likely.