Publication

This publication explains that the original concept for the F-35 was that of a multirole combat aircraft capable of operating in self-contained formations, or alone, in hostile airspace. However, as the F-35’s development proceeded, it proved extremely difficult to overcome the trade-off between low observability, and range and weapons payload. This significantly affected debates on concepts of operations for the aircraft. Consequently, requirements for the F-35’s integration into existing force structures among the program’s partners not only changed but also became more demanding and complex. The text’s author argues that this example prompts the need to rethink existing defense acquisition organization and models.