For the F-35, the initial operational capability (IOC) is set for 2010
for the USMC, USAF IOC is set for 2011 and Navy IOC is set for 2012, so
it may be quite a while before the Blue Angels transition to the F-35.


The USAF may never transition the Thunderbirds to the F-22, just as the
T-birds never transitioned to the F-15. The F-22 will be, like the
F-15 was, bigger, more expensive, and available in fewer number.

Perhaps what we will end up seeing is the Birds flying the F-35A and
the Blues flying the F-35C, similar to when the USAF flew the F-4E and
the Navy flew the F-4J for demonstrations.

Just a guess . . .

Blue skies to you all

John