+ Manoeuvrability remains very important when dodging an incoming missile. So is an ability to leave an area very quickly.
+ Don't for a minute think that new Sukhoi and MIG designs aren't equally stealthy or that their phased array radars aren't up to it (e.g. the Sukhoi PAK FA).
+ Yes , as technology moves on who wins and who gets killed will most often depend on radar capability, stealth, missile capability electronics and electronics integration. With this in mind even AWAC s can have a very high self defence capability.
+ Unless fighting the Russians or the Chinese ...... all of the above is irrelevant. The Super Hornets are (for example) are a far cheaper and more durable (2 engines) and capable option for most conceivable operations (e.g. Iraq).
+ Advanced Russian and Chinese radars can see stealthy aircraft very clearly. And the stealth disappears if any under wing ordinance or drop tanks are required.
+ Cost ....... Yes there are some savings in being able to run fewer multi mission aircraft BUT cost blow outs in the F35 program more than negate all of this. A combination of Superhornets and F15 Silent Eagles would (in larger numbers than the proposed F35 purchase) deliver far greater practical (and deterrant) capability to the RAAF.
+ UAV Future ...... Unmanned aerial platforms are the way of the future ....... not F35s.
