Letter to Editor re Joint Strike Fighter (JSF)
News Item
- Date:
- 26 June, 2006
Chief Defence Scientist, Dr Roger Lough responds to recent articles published in the Australian newspaper with this Letter to the Editor
The article on the Joint Strike Fighter (Stealth fighter project ‘flawed’, 24-25/6) and your subsequent editorial (26/6) are misleading in many respects, not the least in misrepresenting the role of the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO).
One of the key roles that DSTO plays in the acquisition process is to ensure that Australia is a smart buyer of Defence equipment. This was reinforced in the 2003 review of Defence procurement led by Malcolm Kinnaird. We use our scientific expertise both to keep an eye on and enhance technologies that are seen as more risky than others, as well as to help mitigate those risks over time.
This process for the JSF is running smoothly. With a project at the leading edge of technology, and as complex as the JSF, it is to be expected that technology-related problems will arise from time to time. However, we are identifying these, interpreting them for the Australian situation and proposing a way ahead. We participate in the decision-making processes within Defence at all stages and at all levels. The 2005 DSTO reports referred to by The Australian show that our risk mitigation processes are working well.
As I have stated on the public record before, I believe that, when all the technology issues are weighed up, the JSF represents the most capable aircraft to replace the F111 and the F/A-18 in meeting Australia’s security needs. I see no reason to change this opinion at this time.
Dr. R. M. Lough
Chief Defence Scientist
Defence Science & Technology Organisation
Canberra
26 June 2006
The Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) is part of Australia's Department of Defence. DSTO's role is to ensure the expert, impartial and innovative application of science and technology to the defence of Australia and its national interests.