For DU'ers who know this stuff, what are the advantages of the F-35 over the F-22,

[jmowreader]

30. One big advantage is adaptability

There are three versions of the F-35 all using the same airframe molds: the A model for the Air Force, the B model for the Marines and the C model for the Navy. The B model has the short takeoff/vertical landing capability the Harrier did, but unlike the Harrier it doesn't HAVE to land vertically. (If you try performing a rolling landing in a Harrier you will destroy the landing gear in the process. The F-35B will perform rolling landings without risk.) It's also a hell of a lot easier to fly than the Harrier is. The C model is equipped with the fittings for catapult launches and arrested landings.

There's also better situational awareness. The famous $400,000 F-35 driver's helmet works with the cameras and sensors embedded in the airframe to effectively turn the plane transparent. If an F-22 pilot wishes to look at what's behind her to either left or right and below the canopy beltline, she will have a hard time doing that because the wing is in the way. The F-35 pilot can look at the feed from the camera pointing the direction she wants to inspect.

Because most of the airplane is the same from version to version, it's easier to get parts for it.

The major advantage of the F-22 is the extra engine it has.