Speculating about the future of naval aviation is fun! What do I see in my crystal ball? I see UCAVs! But let's not talk about that.
There's no argument that a C model will have greater range than a B model. We can all agree on that.
The dispute centers on whether STOVL (not VTOL) further compromises the fuel/weapons load of the B model to such a degree that the Navy (and Marine Corps) would prefer the C model for CV operations. Since we don't know the precise performance of the B v. C, we can only speculate.
kobyra contends that the lift-fan of the B model can't generate enough lift in a short take-off to allow it to have the comparable gross weight of the C model. I'll concede that. However, if the B model could take off with, for example, 90 percent of the gross weight of the C, that might be more than adequate for most missions.
The point of contention is, how much does the B model sacrifice in terms of unrefueled range/payload v. the C model? And is this sacrifice enough to outweigh the advantages of the B v. C model? My guess, there's not much sacrifice, so there isn't a significant advantage to the C model.
However, I'm sure there are political motivations to having C models operate from CVs, so I'd have to agree with Rainman -- I see a future where the Marines would operate C models. (Did I mention I also see dead people?)
Picture this scenario -- The USMC replaces all its Harriers and Hornets with the B model JSF. Imagine the B model operating alongside the Navy's C model on CVs, performing the same missions. Then imagine the same B model operating from smaller amphibious carriers (ie cheaper) doing the same missions. Some smart congressman (or Defense Secretary) figures that the Navy doesn't need supercarriers to do its job. That would be bad for the Navy.
Then again, if the Navy flew B models as well as the Marine Corps, those same "smart" people might try to take away the Marine Corps tactical air and give it to the Navy. That would be bad for the Marines.
However, kobyra could also be right and the Marines may conclude that B model makes too many compromises v. the C model to work effectively on CVs, and procure the C model too. In any case, we'll find out in a few years.
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Mongol General: ...Conan, what is best in life?
Conan: To crush your enemies, see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentation of the women!
Mongol General: That is good.