VTOL Joint Strike Fighters for the RAAF

[jango]

It has been confirmed to the RAAF will be purchasing 100 JSF to replace the F111 and FA/18 Hornet currently in service. I was wondering if the ADF will be getting any JSF in the vertical take and land mode along with the standard take off and land model.

[XIE]

It hasn't been ordered yet AFAIK. We signed onto the next phase of the JSF program. I would like to see us with some VTOL versions for use up North but VTOL has drawbacks that would be exaggerated in the vast distances needed to be traveled in the North.

[nullterm]

I doubt Australia would get the VTOL version. Although it's a really cool capability, it means more money and more hardware that needs to be maintained.

Aside from the US Marines and Royal Navy looking for a Harrier replacement for use on smaller carriers (F-35B), and the US Navy's conventional carrier capable version (F-35C), the majority of users will opt for the standard ground based F-35A.

[goose36]

it might be a cool capability but i don't think the VTOL has place in the RAAF as strike fighter, which need good legs. it would be nice though having them up with us at FARP's and out on exercise. i really hope we get those 20 odd super hornets as well and keep them going after the JSF comes on line.

[Ballistic]

I think the RAN had dreams of getting some F-35B STOVL's but the idea was rejected. A buy of 20+ and an additional LHD for mini carrier operations would be a nice capability but will never happen.

I'd say if we get the full buy of 100 F-35's the Rhino's will be sold off. The point of the JSF buy is the reduction of aircraft types within RAAF.