Production F-35 too heavy to take off vertically

[Graham]

The E's likely have respectable maneuverability when empty, but I doubt it'd ever fare better than a C speedwise, due the conformal fuel tanks strapped to the side that really wreak havok with drag.

-Al

I was under the impression that the CFTs on the F-15 actually contributed very little to drag.

Graham

[David Hingtgen]

But the E's CFT's have all those pylons stuck on. That adds a good chunk of drag. Though I don't think it'd be too noticeable at sub/transonic speeds.