Australian Govt wants alternative to F-35 fighter

Posted on: Aug. 2nd, 2006 || Source: smh.com.au | E-mail Article | Print Article

THE Defence Minister, Brendan Nelson, has ordered a new proposal for an alternative to the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter amid concerns the $15 billion project cannot be delivered as promised.

Dr Nelson also acknowledged the high risks in the Government's strategy for a new air combat capability that maintains Australia's long-held, and strategically vital, air dominance in the region.

He was impressed by the fighter's potential and believed, if delivered on time and for the promised price, it would be "the correct aircraft for us".

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