FV-30 Kestrel

Alternate History: The Joint Advanced Strike Technology (JAST) program was formally established in 1990 to provide replacements to the current combat aircraft in service with the USAF, USMC and USN. JAST serves as the umbrella to three distinct airframes that would meet the needs of their respective services. In a similar vein to the ATF, a prime requirement was low observable characteristics and the integration of next generation technologies. JAST primarily operates with three divisions: JAST-AF for the Air Force, JAST-MC for the Marine Corps and JAST-N for the Navy.

Since the late 1980's, the US Marines had been studying the feasibility of a next-gen replacement for its Harrier family of fighters. Preferably a supersonic machine with low observable features and other emerging technologies. JAST-MC spearheaded this requirement with Lockheed Martin, assisted by a division of the British Future Offensive Air System (FOAS). They offered a single-engined Raptor-like airframe with a novel lift-fan STOVL system. A working prototype (XFV-30) made its historical maiden flight in 2000. This was followed by intensive testing that led to several redesigns and its infamous "probation phase" in the latter half of the decade.

In hindsight, the "Kestrel" proved to be the most troublesome of the JAST fighters and at one point, faced cancellation. Regardless, the aircraft was a tall order in itself. The lift-fan system, supersonic ability and stealth surely make the FV-30 a significant highlight in modern aviation. The USMC appears to be satisfied with the Kestrel, exceeding most of the Harrier's capabilities and slowly proving itself in the field. But exports have been slow compared to its sister designs. Only the UK and Italy have placed orders so far.


Addendum: The "FV-30 Kestrel" is this timeline's version of the real world STOVL variant of the JSF. It is very much a verbatim repackaging of the F-35B (a little bit sleeker and truly specialized for its intended USMC role).