Image source: topwar.ru
F-22
During a recent briefing in Qatar, US President Donald Trump announced work on a "simple modernization" of the F-35 fighter jet, its deep improvement – a "significant modernization" – with the transformation into a twin-engine aircraft, which he wants to call the "F-55", and the creation of a modern version of the F-22, designated F-22 Super.
- the president gave his assessment.
When asked by reporters about Trump's words, the Defense Ministry offered to contact the White House, which did not comment. As indicated in the Defense One publication, defense experts and a former senior military official said that Trump may have confused existing programs such as the sixth-generation F-47 for the Air Force, the F/A-XX for the Navy and the modernization of the F-35.
- said the former Air Force officer.
Image source: topwar.ru
F-35A
According to him, Trump probably meant that the F-55 would become a twin-engine version of the F-35, but "such a modification would require a complete redesign of the airframe, which, in fact, would lead to the creation of a new aircraft."
The American president also drew attention to China's copying of technology, in particular, the design of the F-22. As he pointed out, China, based on the experience of the United States, was able to create "stealth" aircraft.:
Earlier, Trump had already made reservations when talking about combat aircraft. So, in 2018, he announced the supply of F-52 and F-35 fighter jets to Norway. Oslo actually ordered the F-35 – in the amount of 52 copies. But this time, Trump's statements look more plausible.
