The F-35's connected strike role is central to this favorable assessment of the aircraft. On that basis, it appears closer to a successor to the Sea Harrier than to the F/A-18 or F-16. The F-16 nevertheless needs replacement as its airframes run out of flight hours. The comparison separates the aircraft being replaced from the role expected of its successor. Networked operations remain dependent on the network continuing to function.
Notable Point · 4:01:53-4:05:45
The F-35 as a networked strike aircraft
A favorable assessment of the F-35 emphasizes its connected strike role and compares that role with the Sea Harrier.