Can The F-35 Dogfight? Does It Have to?

The F-35 is well known for its advanced computing, sensor fusion, long-range targeting accuracy, threat data library, and drone-like surveillance capacity.

But can it dogfight?

The F-35 Controversy That Won’t End

This seemingly loaded question has many layers and variables to consider, as the question has been raised numerous times over the years.

As a multi-role fighter capable of a wide range of missions, some have questioned the ability of the jet to prevail in air-to-air combat against an advanced adversary.

Specifically, a report as far back as 2015 in War is Boring cited details from a report on a test dogfighting exercise in which an F-16 repeatedly out-performed and defeated an F-35 in multiple air-to-air combat engagements.

The War is Boring report, which claimed to cite findings and assessments from a test pilot involved in the exercises, generated a storm of controversial discussion about the future of the F-35 and its capabilities.

But, in the end, it was all for nothing as a key fact was missing.

Not the Real F-35

There are tactical and technical things of great relevance to consider.