F-35: Debunking the Myth of Speed

When it comes to fighter jets, the speed at which they operate can greatly influence their effectiveness in real combat scenarios. One common question revolves around the F-35 Lightning II: is it slow? This article will explore the speed capabilities of the F-35 and dispel some common myths surrounding its performance.

F-35 Speed: Myth vs Reality

Many people have preconceived notions about the speed of the F-35, often based on theoretical benchmarks rather than real-world factors. To understand the F-35's true capabilities, it's crucial to consider both its design specifications and actual operational conditions.

F-35 at Subsonic Speed

As a fighter jet, the F-35 is designed to operate at subsonic speeds without the need for afterburners. Running at subsonic speeds allows the F-35 to conserve fuel and maintain its stealth capabilities. The jet requires afterburners to achieve supersonic speeds, but it is important to note that sustained supersonic flight is not necessary for most operational missions.

Limited Supercruise Capability

F-35s are not capable of supercruise, a term used to describe sustained supersonic flight without the need for afterburners. Supercruise is limited to brief periods of time due to the increased cost of operating at those speeds and the risk of reduced stealth properties upon prolonged supersonic flight. In practice, the F-35 can reach speeds around Mach 1.5, though this is theoretically questionable. In the real world, the speed range is typically Mach 0.8 to 0.9.

Comparing Fuel Economy at Mach 0.8 to 0.9

Many fighter jets achieve better fuel efficiency at speeds around Mach 0.8 to 0.9. During these slower speeds, the F-35 can operate more efficiently, conserving fuel and maintaining its stealth. While the jet does not have the capability to supercruise, it is still efficient and effective at these lower supersonic speeds.

F-35 Speed Without Limitations

The internet and media often focus on the F-35's theoretical maximum speed, leading to misconceptions about its true capabilities. One frequently cited figure is a speed of Mach 1.6, but this is not the true maximum speed of the jet. This figure represents the speed at which the F-35 can manage with an over 2-tonne weapons load. However, in actual combat configurations with over 8 tonnes of fuel and 2 tonnes of weapons, the F-35 can achieve higher speeds.

Practical Combat Speeds

In a combat configuration, the F-35 can fly at speeds of Mach 1.6, whereas other jets might only manage Mach 1.4 under similar conditions. This is due to the drag increases caused by externally carried weapons and external fuel tanks. In contrast, the F-35A and C models do not require external fuel tanks or pods because of their internal designs. The F-35A model, in particular, has internal fuel tanks and can carry over 2 tonnes of weapons without increased parasitic or wave drag.

Public Test Data

Public test data shows that the F-35A has achieved speeds of Mach 1.61 in test flights. This indicates that the actual maximum speed of the F-35 is likely higher than the often-quoted Mach 1.6. The ability of the F-35A to achieve these speeds with a thrust level lower than its maximum afterburner thrust suggests that it could accelerate to higher speeds if necessary. The F-35's speed capabilities are not limited to optimal altitudes but can be achieved over a wide range of altitudes.

Conclusion

Far from being slow, the F-35 demonstrates impressive speed capabilities, especially when configured for combat. The jet's true maximum speed is not fully disclosed, but public test data and the capabilities of the F-35A model indicate that it can achieve speeds higher than Mach 1.6. The F-35 is not limited to subsonic or even low-supersonic speeds; it can perform within the supersonic range under certain conditions. Debunking these myths and understanding the F-35's true capabilities is crucial for evaluating its performance in real-world scenarios.

Keywords

F-35, Fighter Jet Speed, Supercruise