I'm wondering what people think career tracks are going to look like for guys currently in the Hornet / Harrier until their platform is completely phased out by the F-35.
I think the current perception is that the USMC is hell bent on standing the F-35 up ASAP, even if it means that the guys flying Hornets / Harriers today have to suffer. I understand that decision given limitations inherent to the Hornet / Harrier when compared to current/emerging threats, and that leadership has determined it more prudent to invest in a new platform than current platforms. I know a lot of guys are saying to jump ship on the Hornet and get into the F-35 ASAP, and that getting too many quals or going to a school in the Hornet will prevent you from doing the same in the F-35, thus hurting your career. Is there any truth to this? When is the right time to transition? How do you guys see the health of current platforms fairing as the F-35 continues to be stood up?
My overall goal is to stay tactically relevant in an operational grey jet for as long as possible.
I think the current perception is that the USMC is hell bent on standing the F-35 up ASAP, even if it means that the guys flying Hornets / Harriers today have to suffer. I understand that decision given limitations inherent to the Hornet / Harrier when compared to current/emerging threats, and that leadership has determined it more prudent to invest in a new platform than current platforms. I know a lot of guys are saying to jump ship on the Hornet and get into the F-35 ASAP, and that getting too many quals or going to a school in the Hornet will prevent you from doing the same in the F-35, thus hurting your career. Is there any truth to this? When is the right time to transition? How do you guys see the health of current platforms fairing as the F-35 continues to be stood up?
My overall goal is to stay tactically relevant in an operational grey jet for as long as possible.
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