Is an all STOVL JSF Force the Right Choice for the Marine Corps

Abstract : In the Marine Corps' quest for a short take-off vertical landing (STOVL) Joint Strike Fighter (JSF), the Marines have sacrificed needed capabilities and performance that past conflicts have proven a necessity and that future conflicts will confirm are essential. The Marine Corps has decided to acquire an all STOVL aviation force and thus has ignored the benefits of conventional take-off and carrier capable jet tactical air (TacAir) platforms. Limiting itself to a single jet aircraft diminishes the force as a whole by reducing flexibility and combat power. The Marine Corps has prided itself in doing more with less and being able to adapt to an ever-changing battlefield, but an all STOVL JSF force will be a detriment to that effort. The United States Marine Corps (USMC) should purchase the carrier variant (CV) JSF, in addition to the STOVL JSF, because a mixed fleet will allow greater flexibility in employment, will continue TacAir integration with the U.S. Navy, and will bring more firepower to the fight.