Gates fires Maj. Gen. Heinz, head of overrun plagued F-35 Fighter Program
by Luimbe • February 2, 2010 • politics & money
More of this please.
Mr Gates said the F-35 programme had been plagued by problems and failed to hit performance targets.
He also said Lockheed Martin, the US firm making the jet, would not receive $614m in performance-related payouts.
The Pentagon wants the F-35 to replace most of its ageing fighter jets.
via BBC News – Pentagon chief fires head of F-35 aircraft programme.
There are probably tons of military programs that need to be cut and/or infused with new leadership.
How about the C-17 program? There are those who believe the president should leave this in the budget to provide jobs in local districts to its constituency. I am the first to say that I am all for job creation. However, we are ignoring the basic economic model of supply and demand. There is absolutely zero demand for more C-17s. They continue to be manufactured solely for the purpose of job security. Call me naive, but isn’t this the same attitude that drove us to the economic crisis we are in, today — over-extending supply where there is no demand to be met? We’re referring to highly skilled workers, here. I’m sure their services are highly desired in the private sector. Despite the harsh economic conditions, Leer Jets are in the highest demand they have been in, well, ever!
My point is this, let the market continue in its normal cycle. In some instances, I believe we are disturbing the wave of supply and demand with with a government-bearing stimulus tsunami. Conditions will change, markets will shift and in turn, people will hone their skills to meet the needs of new sectors. Don’t jump ship — ride the wave!