More F-35 issues raised

A February report from the Defense Department's Operational Test and Evaluation department raises concerns about the survivability of the F-35 in a dogfight. The issues, including less out-of-cockpit visibility than other Air Force fighters, came up during training at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. One pilot pointed out that lack of "aft visibility" could get a plane shot down in close combat. The helmet mounted display was also criticized for technical problems. The 68-page report was posted on the Project on Government Oversight website. The Air Force did its own Operational Utility Evaluation last year. (Sources: Time, Washington Times, Defense News, 03/06/13) Previous: F-35 cleared to fly; F-35A pilot training to begin; F-35 eval completed