Reader Comments - F-35C CONOPS "Dumbtastic Derpitude"

MS

As JDAM bombers, the F-35C are worthless, generating only 32/48/64 DMPIs per flying day at extended ranges where all their EA -18 and F/A-18 escorts are run out of gas trying to keep up unless you convert more whales.

i.e. In any mission where you HAVE TO assume a heavy SEAD force to do what amounts to 1940s laydown missions from altitude, you also HAVE TO shorten the radius so that everyone can make it to the party.

Which renders the entire concept of the F-35C as a static target bomber with big JDAM bays an exercise in Dumbtastic Derpitude.

For comparison, SSGN-728 Florida fired 93 Tomahawks in the first 2 days of Odyssey Dawn and had 67 in reserve. And it will never be sunk by a DF-21D. Nor will it ever run shy of strike coverage with a 900nm missile.


.