It looks like you're using an Ad Blocker.
Please white-list or disable AboveTopSecret.com in your ad-blocking tool.
Thank you.
Some features of ATS will be disabled while you continue to use an ad-blocker.
Originally posted by Murcielago
So they basically want a STOSL (Short take-off short landing).
The Air Force has to make up there mind, there starting to sound like Kerry.
quick question, whats there current engine thrust and current gun?
FredT
I wonder too if the are buying them now with the intent of usuing the lift fan driveshaft to power directed energy weapons in the future
Originally posted by Murcielago
FredT
I wonder too if the are buying them now with the intent of usuing the lift fan driveshaft to power directed energy weapons in the future
Nice thought, But I think thats a bit of a reach.
Don't expect to see a Laser on a fighter for at least 10 years.
Originally posted by cyberdude78
Yeah laser guns seems a bit farfecthed. Still this seems like a pretty nice variant. Is the JSF capable of carring the same amount of fire power as an A-10. The Avenger guns are dangerous. Not just for the enemy. If you fire those for too long the recoil can cause the plane to pracitally stop in midair. And as most of you know this eliminates lift. I relize the vertical takeoff ability helps out but it probably takes some time to redirect thrust, plus there probably isn't time during the middle of an attack run.
Originally posted by Murcielago
Nice thought, But I think thats a bit of a reach.
Don't expect to see a Laser on a fighter for at least 10 years.
FredT
No doubt but that is one of the thinks that was looked at in selecting the Lockheed design. Directed enery weapons are waaaay int he future and thier first aplications on tactical aircraft will more likely be in the AC-130 type due size and weight issues.
Originally posted by FredT
I wonder if the Brits and other would be more interested in this variant for thier carries as it retains its short takeoff capability.
Originally posted by Hyperen
[I think the Brits really want a STOVL version rather than a STOL because of the ability to land vertically. We can't afford conventional carriers with arrester cables yet.
Originally posted by FredT
I thought they were looking at new ones? If the AF variant comes to fruition, it would make a killer maritime strike platform and do quite nicely on the air surperiority mission. The bigger wing would give it more range etc. Assuming that they could land it on a future carrier, it would be a nice fit for the RAF
Originally posted by RAB
For my F-35E (UK) can I have all the bit's off the D with a internal weps bay (big enough for 4 storm shadows) and a second engine.
Originally posted by FredT
As outlined in this weeks AWST:
[edit on 3/10/04 by FredT]