The US report believes that the delay in F-35 upgrades has dragged down the US military procurement plan

According to the US "Warrior Expert" website reported on January 20, according to a recent report on the future fighter strength released by the Mitchell Space Research Institute, the expected schedule for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter to carry out a large-scale "Block 4" module upgrade may affect the US Air Force's procurement of F-35A fighters.

The report said that the delay in delivery of the "Block 4" until 2029 could affect the F-35A's delivery and procurement plans.

The Mitchell Space Research Institute report said: "'Block 4' is a suite that mainly consists of classified hardware upgrades, technology and software modules, which can greatly improve the combat effectiveness of the F-35 fighter." ”

The "Block 3F" F-35 fighter software module now in service enhances the Joint Strike Fighter's weapons delivery capability, enabling it to drop small-diameter bombs, 500-pound Joint Direct Attack bombs and AIM-9X short-range air-to-air missiles. The AIM-9X is a thermally tracked infrared-guided missile used by the U.S. Air Force and Navy.

At a time when upgrades are accelerating, the delay in the F-35 "Block 4" module must run counter to the Air Force's rapid software upgrade process.

The Mitchell Space Research Institute report mentions concerns about the "Block 4" delivery schedule. Any confrontation with an adversary would require a "Block 4," the report said.

The report also pointed out that operational analysis shows that this more advanced "Block 4" configuration is necessary to show combat effectiveness in clashes with opponents. The Mitchell Space Research Institute report said: "However, the challenges encountered in achieving the maturity of all the technologies of the 'Block 4' have led to a delay in the delivery of the entire 'Block 4' kit until at least 2029, which is an important factor in the AIR Force's decision to delay the procurement of the F-35A." ”

Source: Reference News Network