Since then, a large number of European countries have ordered more than 300 F-35 jets which usually won in competition over the latest block F-16s, Grippens and

Since then, a large number of European countries have ordered more than 300 F-35 jets which usually won in competition over the latest block F-16s, Grippens and Dassault Rafales. I think that speaks for itself - problems or no, F-35 is pretty much full generation ahead of competition, is (now) reasonably priced for customers. While it might not be superior in a single role, it does most roles well, has bigger range than most previous gen gets and has a sensor/avionics suite that is currently way ahead of competition (at least one we know about).