Britain voices concern over future of F-35 in US

Britain voices concern over future of F-35 in US WASHINGTON — British Defence Minister Philip Hammond voiced concern on Thursday about possible cuts or delays in the US F-35 fighter program as London plans to equip a future aircraft carrier with the stealthy aircraft. In a visit to the US capital, Hammond said he wanted to hear from Defense Secretary Leon Panetta about the potential effect of a new US military strategy and budget plan on the future of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. “One of the things I hope to understand in the meetings I am to have later today is what, if any, impact the announcements being made today will have on the Joint Strike Fighter program,” Hammond told an audience at the Atlantic Council, a Washington think tank. Hammond’s visit coincided with the unveiling of a revised American military strategy that calls for a “leaner” force as the Pentagon plans for $487 billion in cuts over the next decade. At the Pentagon’s presentation Thursday, officials gave no details as to possible changes to the F-35 program, which has been plagued by cost overruns and delays due to a spate of technical problems. US officials have acknowledged that the pace of production will likely be scaled back but have yet to offer specifics. After Hammond’s meeting with his American counterpart, the Pentagon issued a statement confirming the two discussed the US strategic review but made no mention of the F-35 jet. The Pentagon said the two defense chiefs (Excerpt) Read more at google.com …