The F35 is a good capable platform, better than the f22 in a couple of ways. Though Lockheed was able to milk the sustainment contracts to be very lucrative for themselves. But it’s the most technologicaly advanced fighter ever, brings tons of new capabilities to the US and it’s allies, and is very sought after around the world.
Would you disagree? Are you arguing it doesn’t work, is too expensive per unit, too expense to develop, or that the US doesn’t need it?
I would agree on point three only, because they went into production before validation was finished which turned out to be a bad wager. But the platform itself is still pretty great despite is flaws. Hence why the UAE wants them.