This advanced aircraft relies on a remarkable amount of software, with over eight million source lines of code (four times the amount used for the first of the fifth-generation fighters, the F-22 Raptor). The total life-cycle cost to the US Government alone may well exceed $1 trillion ? significantly more than any other military aircraft in history. The UK is buying the B model to equip both the RAF and Royal Navy.įrom the outset, the programme aim was to maximise commonality between the three versions, because the costs incurred in developing a jet fighter of this latest generation are colossal. ![]() So, what is the Lightning II? It is a ‘fifth-generation’ jet fighter produced in three distinct variants: the conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) F-35A the short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) F-35B and a carrier variant (CV), the F-35C. What’s more, the F-35 may very well be the last ever manned fighter… Some of the brilliant systems incorporated in the design will eventually filter down to airliners and business aircraft (think of how the B787 and many bizjets have now adopted military-style head-up displays). In fact, the F-35 will eventually be the only combat aircraft many countries operate, as it will certainly be flying well into the second half of the 21st century. The UK has ordered 138 Lightning IIs while many other western nations are also intending to buy them. I’ve been lucky enough to fly around a dozen different fighters and fighter-trainers ? powered by piston, turboprop and jet-engines ? but as soon as I settled in the Martin-Baker Mk16 ejection seat, it was apparent the F-35’s cockpit is unlike any other fighter I’ve flown. I’d thought that was an incredible flying machine, but the F-35 is something else! ![]() ![]() Hovering slowly and precisely along the taxiway, I couldn’t help but be reminded of the time I flew a Harrier TMk10. The supremely capable fifth-generation jet fighter that outdoes everything that went before – and is the easiest yet to fly
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