Based on what I've heard from the navy folk's too much lost so they are not interested. Only reason they kept the Ski-jump was because it would have cost more to get rid of it then to keep it.
Only ones thinking about the F-35B's are the politicians and we all know how well that work's out for the military when they stick there noses into it (Only getting half the number of Destroyer's then originally planned)
I'm fully aware that defence dollars can only go so far.
The well written paper by ASPI comes down against the purchase of the F35b for the ADF for a number of reasons.Probably the most important being that of oppertunity cost. What will be need in up front cash to add this capability or what do we forgo in other areas of defence to gain this aircraft and its unique qualities.
I like a former defence minister don't claim to be an Air Power expert, however over the decades it has impressed me the utility of the old Harrier and how this old slow aircaft has contibuted much to campains from both land and sea.Its not what it cannot do, it's what it can.
It's successor the F35b offers a similar capability with steroids.
I remain unconvinced that it has no benefit to the ADF, be it from land or potentially from sea. I am however open minded to the fact that most with defence knowledge feel its a nice have, but not worth the dollars. As to the PM and some pollies yes it is getting a push.
I guess we will wait for the DWP.
ps - With a small compliment of six Australian Hornets in Operation Okra most would consider this a valued fast jet contribution by the RAAF and committment by the Australian government.
You could fit six F35b on the deck of Canberra and still have lots of utility in the decks below.
I still feel that we are a country that both needs and can afford this F35b option.
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