The big issue here is whether the F-35 project is a mere disaster, or an epic disaster.
The F-35 is like the F-111. A jack of all trades and master of none. The F-14, F-15, F-16, F-18, A-10 were the result of the F-111 problem along with the F-4 visibility issues and no gun.
A-10 ThunderBolt - click on photo on right.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairchild_Republic_A-10_Thunderbolt_II