Originally Posted by
radmanly
Was there something factually incorrect in the article?
Not that I aware of but selectively presenting information casts an incomplete picture. You also note that a number of the numbers come from 'unnamed sources'. ???
It is also interesting that these leaks come at a time when the F-22's supporters are trying to keep the production line open beyond the current build of 187. Gates has never been a fan of the Raptor.
Detractors note the Raptor has not flown in Afghanistan or Iraq but then again those theaters lack the mission the Raptor was designed for.
Right now there is ONE air superiority fighter. The Indians did fairly well with the SU-27s and both sides toned down their capabilities to not show all their cards but the reported outcome was still in the Raptor's favor.
And to reflect on aviation history, the "A" model of anything has always had problems. It is usually the "C" model before the airplane reaches the numbers proclaimed for the A. Had we given up production on all the A's it is doubtful we would have ever fielded ANY of the Century Series including the F-110A (re: F-4).
Finally, the big push now is for UAVs and that is playing into the mix also.
Sorry for the long response but it ain't just the simple picture the Post is reporting, IMHO.