Ross Sauer -> Ed Hulett wrote:
 >>>> The US has its own VTOL jet now that is supersonic. The Harrier
 >>>> isn't SS.
 >>>> You really are an idiot.

 >>> Show me.
 >> Google F-35

 RS> The F-35 is a STOL aircraft.

The Marine version is STOVL, not STOL. All other flavors are neither STOVL or VTOL.

 RS> *SHORT* take-off or landing aircraft.

That's all the Marines need. Marine carriers are small and require STOVL or VTOL.

 RS> It still needs a runway when fulll loaded, of about 1/3rd the length of
 RS> a conventional aircraft.

Actually much less than that.

 RS> The US Marines have the right idea. VTOL.

The Marines are replacing their Harriers with STOVL F-35s.

 RS> As to the Harrier being non-supersonic, BFD.

It is a big deal when engaging an enemy fighter that *IS* super sonic.

 RS> In ground-attack mode, supersonic is a disavantage. Even the bomber
 RS> F-15E has to go SUBsonic for it's attack runs.

It uses supersonic speed to get to and to leave the area.

 RS> Just look at the US's best ground-attack aircraft, which should *NOT* be
 RS> phased out.
 RS> The A-10.

A-10s are in theater attack ground aircraft. They have supersonic fighters
circling above to fend off any enemy fighters.

 RS> Just look at the Army's attack aircraft. The Huey Cobras, and the Apaches.
 RS> Do *THEY* need a runway?

The Army hasn't had the Cobra for years now. Attack helicopters are
in-theater ground attack aircraft and also rely on supersonic fighters to
fend off enemy fighters.

For someone who has bragged about his vast knowledge of all things
airborne, you sure are clueless as to the differing roles VTOL aircraft
play in the broader scheme of things.

Ed

-- 
"No country upon earth ever had it more in its power to attain
these blessings than United America.  Wondrously strange, then,
and much to be regretted indeed would it be, were we to neglect
the means and to depart from the road which Providence has pointed
us to so plainly; I cannot believe it will ever come to pass."

-- George Washington (letter to Benjamin Lincoln, 29 June 1788)

Linux User# 416016
Linux Machine# 323569

--- Thunderbird 2.0.0.12 (X11/20080227)