Originally Posted by XHooker

Very true. While fighter pilots will probably always measure their prowess by post merge engagement (one vs. one being the ultimate), the reality is pre merge is the most important phase of the engagement. I agree with what everyone says here re the money/capability equation, but I'd like to see us continue to press the edge of the technological envelope within fiscal sanity, which is admittedly a tough balancing act. Maybe the best answer is to bypass more manned fighters all together and begin taking the weakest link (us) out of the equation now. And no, there's nothing wrong with the F-4, especially if you hang the latest and greatest weapon system on it (aside from the fact you'd see it's J-79s smoking from about 30 miles out).