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On the other hand, they are the makers of F-35, no? I think a fair amount of skepticism is needed.

On the other other hand, they are the makers of the SR-71 Blackbird, so I think a little benefit of the doubt is needed. ;)

That was designed in the '60s by a prolific aircraft designer. It was quite a different time.

But they continued that with e.g. the F-117 stealth fighter(-bomber), after Kelly Johnson was no longer running the show. The story of the prototype's development is stunning, see e.g. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0316743003/

As for the F-35, the TFX like requirements are its biggest problem (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Dynamics_F-111_Aardvar... see also The Strategy of Technology if you want the whole picture).

The F-35's issues have been ascribed to the Marine Corps' demand for VTOL.

https://medium.com/war-is-boring/fd-how-the-u-s-and-its-alli...

The best thing you can say about the F-35 is that it's a perfect example of design-by-committee.

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