Cutting back the overall number of aircraft? Something could
be done, but JSF is needed too much to replace other types,
and the result would be a reduction in overall strength.
Cancelling the USAF JSF and make the USAF use the naval
version instead? The naval version is 25% more expensive
than the land-based model, so that would hardly be a cost-
saving measure. Cancelling the naval version? That would
make the USN a second-rate airforce. The STOVL version
is the least needed one, with the lowest warload/range
performance. A clear candidate for cancellation, IMHO.


The thing is, there are 12 amphibous warships in the inventory that
operate Harriers. If attack aircraft were eliminated from those ships
it would have a significant impact.