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In Red Flag 2017, F-16 Fighting Falcons successfully utilized swarm tactics against F-35 Lightning IIs, achieving a 20:1 kill ratio. Although F-35s excelled in beyond-visual-range engagements due to their stealth, F-16s overwhelmed them in close combat.

The F-35's limited weapons payload and thrust-to-weight ratio were highlighted as disadvantages. Concerns arose after a former U.S. pilot allegedly leaked F-35 vulnerabilities to China. The Air Force faces the challenge of enhancing aerial combat tactics to maintain dominance against advanced adversaries like China and Russia.