I believe it has the same AESA radar system that the F-22 is equipped with. Besides being able to track dozens of targets simultaneously, it can also interfere with enemy radar allowing it to maintain it's stealth profile and lock weapons at the same time. It is even capable of causing
physical damage to enemy radar under certain circumstances.
The voice-commands and embedded helmet display are pretty cool...I didnt know about those until I read this article.
Quote:
Pointing to a landing spot on the map display tells the computer to fly the plane there – nearly hands off.
A visual system built into the pilot’s helmet projects an image onto the visor, giving real-time navigation and targeting information. No matter which way the pilot’s head turns, the data are always in view.
Voice commands are integrated into the controls to rapidly react to changing mission requirements.
[...] “On the Navy and Marine side, we don’t have stealth airplanes yet, so just the fact we are getting one of those is a huge deal,” said Tomassetti, chief test pilot and commanding officer of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 23 at Patuxent River Naval Air Station in Maryland .
Its low radar profile gives it stealth, while a revolutionary new radar inside the plane will allow it 360-degree vision to better evade attackers.
http://home.hamptonroads.com/stories...180705&tref=po
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I think these are due to start deployment in 2007. It uses internal weapon bays like the F-22, although it's stealth profile isnt quite as good. Unlike the F-22, certain versions can be outfitted with VTOL capabilities, which is why it will be replacing existing Harriers as well.
All models will be vector thrust, giving them far better manuverability than the current generation of fighters. The only criticism I have seen so far is the fact that it is a single engine fighter (if that engine goes out, there is no back up).