Stealth Saga #8: Setbacks, Bulling Ahead and Progress

The plot thickens on the F-35/KF-X scandal in South Korea.

Despite the setbacks, the South Korean government will be pushing the KF-X program on schedule.

The Indians continue to worry about their cooperation with the Russians on the FGFA/PAK-FA program.

India is starting to emphasize the AMCA 5th generation fighter program over the FGFA.

A Canadian defense rag claims the Chinese J-20 stealth fighter doesn't qualify as a 5th gen fighter!

The Chinese FC-31/J-31 is being promoted as a replacement for the JF-17 in export markets.

A US Congressman notes the Chinese J-20 and J-31 'mirror' the F-22 and F-35.

A new book claims the 'Stealth-hawk' used in the bin Laden raid was one of two prototypes that were built.  Other sources are claiming nonsense.

The Long Range Strike Bomber contract has been delayed at least two months.

However, the LRS-B program has two prototypes already and will award the contract even if Congress is dumber than dumb and does a continuing resolution for the full year.

There are hints the LRS-B program may get accelerated. 

The F-35C returns to sea for testing on October 5th.  Turns out this was moved up to October 2nd.

The F-35 has done its first external weapon release.

Norway has reaffirmed its intent to buy 52 F-35s.

Lockheed is already started work on how to place its fiber lasers onto the F-35.

Northrop has completed the first center fuselage for Japan's first F-35A.