via Politico.
LOCKHEED HIRES MELODY CLARK CONSULTING: Defense giant Lockheed Martin has hiredMelody Clark Consulting to lobby for federal funding for the F-35 jet fighter, according to the latest Senate lobbying disclosures. The troubled F-35 program has faced major delays and cost overruns for years, and government estimates in 2013 pegged the program’s total cost at $400 billion — nearly twice what was expected when the program began.Absolutely Fucking Amazing!
The fighter was also targeted during sequestration talks in Congress, with several critical lawmakers slamming the program’s ballooning costs. Lockheed Martin is perennially one of the top spenders when it comes to lobbying the federal government. So far this year, the company has reported $10.6 million on lobbying efforts. It has a slew of outside lobbying firms on retainer including Podesta Group, Venable LLP, Van Scoyoc Associates and Capitol Counsel.
If the subject wasn't so serious I'd be laughing my ass off!
But the reality is stark. Its obvious that despite intense lobbying on the part of the USAF, USMC (leadership), allies, Lockheed Martin and the Program Office, the plane is being seen for what it is...A tremendous waste of money.
Despite what the fanboys have been saying it looks like the critics are gaining traction.
The plane needs to die. "Nuff said.
