Lockheed Martin Wins JSF competition

[AndrewR]

the brass probably didn't like the Boeing's unconventional design

Unconventional? The Boeing jet used the same lift technology as the Harrier while the L/M version uses a separate lift fan to generate downward thrust. The L/M jet is also the first to use a short take off, fly supersonic, and then land vertically. That's conventional?

My only problem with this new aircraft is that the weapons load is REALLY small, especially when you consider that the JSF is supposed to replace the A-10, which has about 12,000 lbs more capability per mission. I really don't see the wisdom of eliminating the A-10 when all it really needs is an avionics upgrade.

 

[UNCjigga]

Umm, correct me if I'm wrong but wasn't this a twin-engine vs. single-engine contest??? 'Nuff said (what was Boeing thinking???)

 

[Pocatello]

Both were single-engined.

 

[TallBill]

i heard that its internet ready too .. (really.. i did)

 

[charrison]

Andrew,

YOu are right. The a-10 is great for what it was designed for, low speed air support. It is heavily armored and has 2 engines.

 

[Russ]

<< << Boeing will have a hand in the development of the plane (as Lockeed would if Boeing landed the contract). >>




Hmmmm.......this from CNN completely contradicts that opinion............ >>



It doesn't completely contradict anything. It states very clearly that Lockheed is free to use Boeing as a sub - which they will do.

Russ, NCNE

 

[jonnyjack]

cool...my dad works there...my cousin used to i think (i don't talk to her often), my uncle did until he retired and two of my neighbors work there too...haha

 

[Pocatello]

It doesn't matter how effective the A-10 is, the USAF top brass hate it from the beginning. They have been trying to kill the A-10 or put it out of service ever since its introduction, but times and times again, the A-10 proves to be irreplaceable. There was a upgrade plan for the A-10 to make it more effective at night, but the Air Force rejected the idea.

 

[judgejudy]

woohoo.. my LMT stock is going to skyrocket... it's already gone up like mad before the contract

 

[Adul]

<< Unconventional? The Boeing jet used the same lift technology as the Harrier while the L/M version uses a separate lift fan to generate downward thrust. The L/M jet is also the first to use a short take off, fly supersonic, and then land vertically. That's conventional? >>




It the fans assist in vertical take off. A majority of its thrust comes from the nozzle that can be turn in just about any direction they want. You have to see the video of it, it is pretty sweet looking.

 

[jacklutz]

FAS' page on the JSF if anyone's interested.