via The Diplomat.
The Canberras retain the essential capability of the “Juan Carlos I” design, including features that support the F-35B. They have air traffic control facilities for helicopter operations, which would support short take-off and vertical landing, although an additional lighting system may be required for bad weather operations. The F-35B wouldn’t require large “specialised” maintenance facilities to be built into the ship, although adaptation of existing spaces might be required. The Canberras have enough fuel to support F-35Bs, and large weapons magazines. Claims to the contrary are incorrect.Read the entire article here.
Flight-deck heating issues are consistently overstated. Heat-resistant coatings might be required, but are easily applied. Other measures such as a “creeping” vertical landing would further alleviate what’s already a minor issue.
The bottom line? Operating the F-35B from LHDs is technically feasible and well within the capability of the ADF. It wouldn’t be free, but nor would it break the bank.
Not sure what to make of this article. I do note that it was first published by the Australian think tank ASPI.
