"Tom Conner" wrote

The real issue is that if these planes are so dangerous then why did we
stop
using them? Or, conversly, why are we scared of them? Are a few
operational planes that big of a threat?

Because they are EXPENSIVE to maintain. The huge plane to fly the huge
radar is not needed for air superiority. The Super F-18 can do the job for
much less.
--
Jim in NC