More on F-22

[Coyote Chris]

LOCKHEED TO SUPPLY F-22 OXYGEN BACKUP
(http://www.avweb.com/eletter/archive...ll.html#206793)
The Air Force has awarded Lockheed Martin a $19 million contract to
install backup systems into existing F-22 Raptor fighter jets that
bypass otherwise unresolved problems with the aircraft. Air Force
officials are still stymied by reports from pilots who say they have
suffered hypoxia-like symptoms while flying the jet. After months-long
failed attempts to source the problem the Air Force will now be paying
Lockheed, the jet's original manufacturer, to install automatic backup
oxygen systems to bypass the original oxygen systems, if necessary.
But the contract won't cover all of the jets.

http://www.avweb.com/eletter/archives/avflash/2232-full.html#206793

[rampking]

Re: More on F-22

Why is the Air Force picking up the check regarding this fix ???
The aircraft's manufacturer and sub-contractors have zero liability ?

[Coyote Chris]

Re: More on F-22

Why is the Air Force picking up the check regarding this fix ???
The aircraft's manufacturer and sub-contractors have zero liability ?

1. Dont worry, if a guilty contractor is found, (in a state without a powerful memeber of congress) they will have lots of catching up to do. Till then, Our pilot's lives are more important than arguing over a mear 19 million dollars.
2. If a smoking gun ever appears pointing at a contractor, in a state with powerful senators and congressmen, you may never hear about it.....

We have the best government that money can buy.....

[rampking]

Re: More on F-22

" Till then, Our pilot's lives are more important than arguing over a mear 19 million dollars."
Yes, the pilot's lives* and the security of the nation.
Regarding the safety of the pilots, the USAF has limited the distance traveled from base for the F-22 so pilots can quickly return to base if a problem developes.
Additional instrumentation have been supplied so pilots can monitor their own blood-oxygen levels.
Last time I checked, the Montana ANG F-15's have been sent to Hickam AFB as air cover replacements for the F-22 squadron there.
I am not aware of what fighters were deployed to cover Alaska and Washington D.C during the months long aircraft grounding.
Regarding the money liability issue I brought up, you can bet that the additional money spent on this safety program will give a financial hit on normal F-22 upgrades as well.
As it is, I am sure you are aware that some combat aircraft are being retired just to pay for up-grades for the rest of the fleet.

I'll stay away from the politics/big money issues of the situation, but I completely understand what you are saying....