Why did one advanced jet fail while another succeeded

Vice Admiral Tom Connolly famously remarked to US Senator John Stennis: “Senator, there isn’t enough power in all Christendom to make that airplane what we want.” This led to the development of the Grumman F-14 Tomcat.

The F-111 did find success as a long-range fighter-bomber and influenced future aircraft designs with its unique features like swing wings and advanced avionics. It served until 2010 in various capacities.

In contrast, the F-35 program succeeded where the F-111 struggled due to advancements in technology. As detailed in "F-35: The Inside Story of the Lightning II," this aircraft replaced fourteen different models across US services and allies, functioning as a fighter, reconnaissance plane, electronic warfare platform, among others.

Lockheed Martin's infographic highlights how sensor fusion enhances its capabilities alongside improved computing power and stealth features. The F-35 also supports diverse weaponry without compromising its design focus on maneuverability.

Manufacturing-wise, unlike its predecessor which saved General Dynamics from financial trouble before being sold to Lockheed Martin, the F-35 is produced globally with facilities in Italy and Japan contributing parts through competitive processes.

The three variants—conventional take-off (A), vertical lift (B), and carrier landing (C)—were designed for specific missions. This adaptability has contributed to over 3,000 units planned for production beyond 2030.

Ultimately, technological progress has enabled the F-35's success across multiple countries with varying operational needs while maintaining focus on maneuverability and mission versatility.