Well, all those buying F-35A's should feel quite comfortable at present time. That model is certainly "kicking goals" in the flight test program.
I know the USMC has the earliest in-service date for the F-35 aircraft, but I can't help but wonder whether USAF might beat them to it? The supply chain issues effecting STOVL flight testing haven't been resolved as yet and the A model is massively outstripping the other 2 models in it's flight testing...
The only issue might be if the A model is dependent on the other models for mission systems, weapons testing etc, I suspect. If not, then I can't see too many "problems" ahead...
I believe that BF-4 is the only mission systems bird right now. So if it isn't flying no mission systems test are being done (SIL's and CATBIRD notwithstanding). I'm sure that is affecting everyone. They are going to have a really hard time to stay on the schedule to begin ship trials next year.
Well, all those buying F-35A's should feel quite comfortable at present time. That model is certainly "kicking goals" in the flight test program.
ReplyDeleteI know the USMC has the earliest in-service date for the F-35 aircraft, but I can't help but wonder whether USAF might beat them to it? The supply chain issues effecting STOVL flight testing haven't been resolved as yet and the A model is massively outstripping the other 2 models in it's flight testing...
The only issue might be if the A model is dependent on the other models for mission systems, weapons testing etc, I suspect. If not, then I can't see too many "problems" ahead...
I believe that BF-4 is the only mission systems bird right now. So if it isn't flying no mission systems test are being done (SIL's and CATBIRD notwithstanding). I'm sure that is affecting everyone.
ReplyDeleteThey are going to have a really hard time to stay on the schedule to begin ship trials next year.
AF-03 (flying since July 7) is the second bird with mission systems.
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