As much as I think it would be a bad idea to cancel the F-22 I have to
admit that the perception is that it's iffy as far as hitting it's
deadlines. But also from what I've read it seems that most of the
problems are with software and avionics and that the airframe/engine
combination is relatively sound and hasn't had anything more extreme
than any other new aircraft as far as surprises go. So the question is
if the software and avionics ultimately drag it down what would be the
best alternative?

1. Would it be possible to completely ****-can the avionics and
software and use the same as is going to be used in the F-35? I mean
IDENTICAL other than the differences to deal with the different flight
characteristics of the F-22?

2. Stuff the latest generation Strike Eagle avionics into an
F-22/F-119 combo as a stopgap until you could do #1? It would
essentially BE a faster, stealthy F-15.

3. Can the F-22 entirely which would mean you flushed billions away
and got nothing for it and then buy F-15Ks with AESA APG-63s as a
stopgap until the F-35 is ready?

4. *shudder* buy "Super"Hornets for the Air Force?

5. Buy foreign?


5 seems like a nonstarter

I would HOPE 4 would be a nonstarter.

IMO 3 would be most likely but then in the end you end up with an
underpowered aircraft that wasn't designed for air-to-air as it's
primary role.

2. Seems like it would cost as much or more than just working out the
current problems.

1 Would not only likely be MORE expensive since you's REALLY be
stretching out the purchase of F-22 airframes but you'd have gone
something like 20 years between prototype flight and inservice.



Anyway ALL opinions welcome but let's all try to keep the
flamethrowers at home.