Going ahead with the acquisition of F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters (JSFs) will best meet Australia's priorities for capability, industry participation, and alliance management with the United States, according to an Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) report released on 24 March.
The ASPI report came to its conclusion despite the unavoidable continuing cost of the 24 F/A-18F Super Hornet strike fighters already in service with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and the 12 EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft on order.
"Risks to both [JSF] schedule and performance seem sufficiently under control to make that a responsible decision. Although the development program could still throw up surprises, it looks like the F-35 will be ready in time to retire the vintage Hornet fleet as scheduled, and will perform as required," the report stated.
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