From what I have heard from Lockheed workers in Fort Worth, the F-35As are better than anything flying considerably except for the twice as costly Raptors. This includes being better than all of the F-16s and F/A-18s and F-15s. The F-35Bs will outshine the Harriers significantly. This is from friends who aren't so happy with the big shots at the top of Lockheed. Their honest opinions.
Would you think these same workers who built F-16s and F-111s at the same General Dynamics plant in Fort Worth would know their stuff? After a fly-off with Boeing, and a long development program.
If you think you are buying a dog, sorry. You have been fooled again if you pass over the F-35. Yes, they are still in the testing days, but already the aircraft is better. You can't miss!! Its a no brainer.....
Frankly, I am more worried about its final price than its performance. As I was driving home earlier today for a dental appointment, I got off work early, I heard another sonic boom from a Lightning II. My eyes can tell the difference between a Falcon and a Lightning II.
Yes, it is great to live near Fort Worth, Texas....