[AndyJackson]

One has to laugh. So, the F35 is not particularly effective in its ground support mission, but becomes much more effective when paired with the A10 which is a ground attack aircraft unmatched in its effectiveness.

Oh, and which of these two aircraft pick up a downed pilot, the F35? Does the pilot climb onto a wing, or does he hide out in a wheel well? Or does that mission still have to be done by the lowly contemptible not to be seen anywhere near my budget helicopter.

[Rockingham]

Paired for the CASR mission, the non-stealthy A-10 brings brute, ground-hugging firepower, while the stealthy F-35 is said to provide top cover and forward observation and control. Helicopter or tiltrotor then picks up the grounded pilot (or maybe he calls Uber!). In some quarters, I am sure it will be disputed that the F-35 can do anything other burn cash and blow development deadlines, but the prospect of better CASR ought to be appealing to a military organization run by pilots.