Originally posted by Xasthur
I think you missed the sarcasm there, mate.
It was a snide comment toward our government and its policy to simply ask "how high?" when America asks us to 'jump'.
What is there to fear from us having your technology?
Do you consider Australia a threat to America? Not bloody likely, mate. We have always been right behind any action America has taken. As far as countries go, we're as close to being your brother as you can get.
The Collins submarines have been the subject of much controversy down here too, mate.
The F-111 has indeed been fantastic but you cannot say that it has not passed its 'use by' date? We're in need of an upgrade and I would think that our record of support and loyalty should count for something in the consideration of our request.
Don't get too worked up about it, mate. We're on your side and we always have been.
I aint worked up mate and nobody values our friendship with Australia more then I. It may surprise you guys but we Yanks love the bloody Aussies. Come to this country and you'll never have to buy a beer nor be without female company.
But every time this F-22 thing comes up we get a big Waa-fest from down under and it makes me bloody sad to hear an Aussie describe their proud and accomplished country as a US lickspittle. Especially since your own bloody people have said the 22 isn't the right airplane for you.
Because the fact is Australia has a networked defense mechanism that is second to none, most of all in your region, and most of all the RAN and RAAF. The Collins boats, weapons, and crews are so good that they could basically shut off the maritime approaches to Australia, by a potential enemy, on their own. And they are getting even better with systems like the new LHDs, JSF, and cruise missiles coming on line.
Dont make one of histories great alliances sound like a trip to a local potatohouse. Our alliance has been beneficial to both of us and thats why it continues.
The F-111 does "need and update" but why would you update a maritime strike fighter bomber with an air dominance fighter like a Raptor? It just doesnt make sense, not when the dual role JSF will fit both roles nicely. And best of all you'll get 3 for the price of one Raptor.
We dont want to sell the Raptor to other countries because we dont want to increase the chances of technology theft. The theft of the software code alone would be a huge setback for us, as would theft of the radar. While we may not worry about the Aussies once we sell the thing to one country then every customer we have would be whining for it. And within a few years the Chinese would be rolling out their shiny new J-22 stealth fighter.
I dont know whats going to happen. It might very well end up we do sell the Raptor to you. But do get your ducks in a row before you say this stuff. The Raptor is not a viable replacement for the F-111.
