Despite sustained criticism surrounding their cost, capabilities, and operational viability, Australia has signaled its intention to bolster its air power by committing to the purchase of an additional squadron of Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II jets. This decision, which aims to replace aging Super Hornets and supplement the existing Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) fleet, has sparked debates on whether these fifth-generation stealth fighters can effectively contend with advanced adversaries.
In the face of skepticism from defense analysts and significant media scrutiny, Australia’s dedication to expanding its F-35 fleet persists. As recently reported, the Australian government plans to add a fourth F-35 squadron, growing the total number to 96 aircraft. However, Toohey points out the long history of costly problems of the F-35s already acquired while arguing that Australia “should be asking for a refund” and that “the biggest mistake was to buy the plane in the first place.”
The cost of sustaining the F-35 fleet is projected to be AUD14.6 billion ($10.87 billion) until 2053. Moreover, operational issues have been raised, as per budget projections from the Australian Department of Defense (DoD), indicating a 25% decrease in F-35 flight hours for the 2021-22 fiscal year and a continued decline in the subsequent years due to maintenance difficulties linked to the Joint Strike Fighters.
Critics point out that the F-35’s effective combat radius and fuel consumption during acceleration could hamper its performance in conflict zones, particularly those requiring extended range such as the South China Sea. The fighter’s top speed of 1.6 Mach can only be maintained for 50 seconds before a significant reduction is needed, potentially impacting its response in combat situations.
Moreover, the existing Block 3F software utilized in Australia’s F-35 fleet has been found inadequate for addressing challenges presented by countries such as China and Russia. Senior US Air Force official Lt. Gen. S. Clinton Hinote has raised concerns regarding the efficacy of Block 3F in critical situations, such as safeguarding Taiwan against a Chinese aerial assault. A possible solution lies in migrating to the Block 4 operating system, although its development is currently delayed and exceeding the budget.
The upcoming Block 4 upgrade, anticipated before 2027, will require more than just software enhancements. It may also entail a significant revision of the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine to support the improved capabilities and cooling needs.
The RAAF plans to have all its F-35s operational by the end of 2023, the debate surrounding the jets’ utility in Australia’s defense posture is far from over. The new fleet of F-35s is a costly risk on a platform with an inconsistent track record, and the acquisition has been highlighted as policymakers deal with the shift towards countering China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
Relevant articles:
– Buying F-35 Fighters ‘Biggest Mistake’ Of Australia; US Jets A ‘Total Disaster’, Can’t ‘Stand Up’ To China — Aussie Critic, EurAsian Times, Dec 6, 2022
– Catholic Workers gather in Madison to protest new F-35 fighter jets, ncronline.org
– Australia spent billions on jet fighters off the plan. Now, we’re having trouble even flying them | Griffith Asia Insights, Griffith University