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HeadSet
2023 Jul 24, 11:18am
HeadSet
2023 Jul 24, 11:18am
AmericanKulak says
Generals are way down the totem pole when it comes to choosing weapon systems. The choice is made by the SecDef with politics beating effectiveness. A good example is McNamara during the 1960s. When the F-111 competition came out, the Air Force selected Boeing, but McNamara repeatedly handed the study back for work until the result was General Dynamics in his and Jonnson's home state of Texas. Generals and Colonels can influence acquisition of much smaller (but still lucrative) goods and services.
Also, full prototype planes must fly off before the USAF Double-Dipping Generals get to pick one.
Generals are way down the totem pole when it comes to choosing weapon systems. The choice is made by the SecDef with politics beating effectiveness. A good example is McNamara during the 1960s. When the F-111 competition came out, the Air Force selected Boeing, but McNamara repeatedly handed the study back for work until the result was General Dynamics in his and Jonnson's home state of Texas. Generals and Colonels can influence acquisition of much smaller (but still lucrative) goods and services.
The idea of F-16s replacing A-10s was absurd; Congress needs to instruct and command the USAF to earmark at least 5-10% of the budget for Close Air Support, which cannot be done as effectively by a thin-skinned, high and fast light fighter as a dedicated Armored, Low and Slow, highly dependable Warthog
The F-35's system are "Magic, when they work."
https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/air-force-commander-wants-new-f-16-replacement-to-support-f-35/
Also, full prototype planes must fly off before the USAF Double-Dipping Generals get to pick one. In fact, it should be Captains and Majors and Squadron Commander Lt. Col/Cols with years ahead of them responsible for the final choice.