Has Australia Moved on from the F-35?

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Staying With The Super Hornets?

Australia recently canceled its order of 28 more F-35 Lightnings – why is that? The additional Lightnings were expected to replace the RAAF’s last remaining squadron of F-18 Super Hornets. However, the nation has decided to remain loyal by flying their last batch of F-18s for another decade or so.

To do this, Australia has been trying to extend its lifespan by performing several midlife updates while raising these Hornets to the Block 3 standard. This standard essentially classifies Super Hornets as 4th-plus Generation fighters, fitted with enhanced mission computers, sensors, and a reduced radar cross-section that should improve their survivability. 

Another promising development lies in the Australian, UK, and US trilateral security pact, better known as AUKUS. This was initially designed to assist Australia in obtaining nuclear-powered submarines, but the pact has been extended to include other technologies. When it comes to fighter planes, this could eventually include the Next Generation Air Dominance 6th-Generation fighter. 

No wonder Australia’s not in a hurry to get the F-35s!