Basically, it comes down to using bleeding edge technology, which, when juxtaposed with frantic weight reduction efforts, creates an absolute mess, just as it has with the failed bulkhead, the 360 degree vision system helmet and HUDless cockpit, etc.:
Another observation -- relevant to future programs -- is that the electrical problems (both this one and the AA-1 incident) have arisen from the use of a new system which, while it may have net advantages, is not core to the aircraft's capability -- you could in theory build a short-takeoff-and-landing stealth fighter without it.In the larger picture, this is actually the alpha and omega of weapons development.
The same goes for another headache area, the wide-field-of-view video helmet and HUD-less cockpit. The lesson may be that any innovations that fall into the nice-to-have rather than mission-essential capability should be low-risk when you incorporate them into the design.
Too much whiz-bang for too much bucks.
The best part was the reference to Lucas, Prince of Darkness.
ReplyDeleteSo, did you own a British car, work on them, or just want to own one?
ReplyDeleteI owned two British cars, a TR-3 Triumph, and a Spitfire, and was burdened with a Sunbeam Alpine for a few months.
ReplyDeleteYou know that British cars leak oil to mark their territory?