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The article discusses the problems associated with the Joint Strike Fighter program and discusses Australia's role in the development of the F-35 Lightning II fighter plane. It informs that the F-35 has experienced several issues such as delays in its development and production, concerns over its performance and high unit costs since its commencement in 2001 with the U.S. It mentions that the F-35 will be available in three versions including the F-35A, the F-35B and the F-35C.

The article offers information on the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) planes tested for the U.S. and Australian Air Force and Navy. According to U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates, 2 variants of JSF were rated as satisfactory compared to the Marine Corps Short Takeoff and Landing (STOVL) aircraft. It reports on the improvements in JSF aircraft's development for use which is scheduled to reach its Initial Operating Capability (IOC) in 2017.