The threat to US national security continues to grow, but remains serious. For example, the possibility of a Russian invasion of Ukraine could threaten the preservation of peace in Europe and the security of its NATO allies. Meanwhile, evil governments like Iran and North Korea have always created regional problems that can escalate into much larger problems.
But perhaps the greatest threat we face today is the threat posed by the People's Republic of China in the Western Pacific. China's rapid progress in hypersonic missile technology and anti-aircraft weapons systems is a very worrying issue that we must address quickly. This would leave our carrier fleet too far away from mainland China, which could be of great help in countering displacement in Taiwan.
One of the best means of combating this threat in our country is the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. The flight requirements for the F-35 have changed, as have the requirements for aircraft propulsion, so the new requirements will exceed the thrust and thermal limits of the F135 within 10 years. In order for our air assets to keep pace with the technological advances of potential adversaries, we need to increase our motor activity.
Fortunately, there are plans to upgrade the existing engine. The extended engine package offers a V/STOL F-35B variant that meets or exceeds all expansion requirements, increases thrust and range by 10%, improves thermal management by 50%, and increases vertical lift by up to 5%. Do.
F-35s will be a major part of the defense of our country and our allies for the next few decades. The threats and challenges that our commanders and pilots face require that they have the best and most reliable equipment at their disposal. The F135 engine needs to be upgraded and needs to be upgraded. However, it is far better to upgrade to an existing known and reliable platform than to roll the dice on a brand new and untested machine. Too much is at stake to make such gambling.
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