If the F-35 schedule slips or the rate of production is less than assumed, alternatives for managing the strike fighter shortfall seem limited.

Should Congress consider lifting that prohibition and allow FMS of F-22s, for instance to Japan and Australia, which have expressed some interest?

the Department of the Navy's strike fighter gap could be a problem, especially if the JSF slips in becoming IOC.

the United States still has no plans to export the F-22s.

We feel it's critical that we work to get something that we can begin fielding into our forces.

General Trautman, what is the current program of record for the number of F-35s to be stationed at your first operational location?

in your opinion does it make sense to increase concurrency between development and procurement?

The fiscal year 2010 budget is an integral part of a much longer term process that will help insure defense dollars are spent wisely to address the threats that we face today and will likely face tomorrow.

The Marine Corps will continue to manage legacy fleets of Harriers and Hornets until introduction of STOVL JSF.

As you all know, the President signaled his intention to move away from the use of supplemental spending bills to deal with overseas operations and instead to incorporate these costs into the regular budgeting process.

General Trautman, are you on track with all environmental actions and construction activities to be able to meet your deadline?

The current F-22 Raptor and JSF procurement plans would likely leave a gap of up to 800 fighter aircrafts by 2024.