Maybe someday we'll even have intelligent highway systems.

Maybe we should start with intelligent citizens? :D

Well it is in that field that our technological edge is most pronounced.

I made sure i mentioned our electronics and radar technology, even if in passing. ;)

...or intelligent politicians.

The two vids i posted were of the F-35B hovering, and the MTHEL mobile tactical laser shooting down all kinds of inflight projectiles.

From what I understand, the MTHEL is pretty fantastic stuff.

As for the F-35, methinks it's going to be a dodo. If the Marine version comes out without the lift fan that one might be a good a/c. Time will tell.

Well, it's true that the F-35B(VTOL version) is a fattie.

Keep 'em off the highway. How's that for an intelligent solution? :D

Has anyone ever taken up the Russian jet stall/ thrust vectoring challenge?

I was intimately involved in the ATL (Advanced Tactical Laser) and HELTD (High Energy Laser Technology Demonstrator) programs prior to leaving Boeing. It is safe to say that the military is investing heavily in what they call "directed energy weapons". The technology is impressive for sure. I'm not sure how much real-world use it really has, but it is impressive nonetheless.

You keep spouting off about this with absolutely no concrete proof. A blog is not proof George. Get something concrete then we will believe you!

The oil industry is running our country and they do not prefer alternative, or clean, energy sources. Because of this, the rest of the world is going to beat us to the punch. This will be another golden opportunity squandered in the name of holy corporate profits.

It's a very interesting project, and they've got the money to do it. It should provide some high paying jobs for those schooled in the field, and an opportunity to change the world for the better. I cheer their efforts.