in my humble opinion based on a lot of research, reading and my knowledge on the topic F-35 was create in mind for a modern warfare battlefield Dogfight are rare in close quarter they dont need to go close, pilot can chose his best way of action having a complete picture of scenario like when whe fly "in a sim".close dogfight are the last choice for a pilot, they can use aim120 amraam to take targets long way before they get on harmways, IRIS-T is good but not the best choice at long range when you have Radar Guided, AESA is superior an migs and Sukhoi just dream to have it. F-35 have maneuveability new tech electronics and stealth, when its not on first day invading envelope the can have pilont with a lot of ordenance and fuel for stay on station long time. the research cost arent production costs, the plane are relative cheap and open to integrate new technology, yes i love A-10,F-14,F-15, F-18 and F-16 but technology have to grow. im just waiting for the 6 gen "Boeing badass new fighter"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtZNBkKdO5U
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyHlp7tJrxY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31oJIo8EVwY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9s7-3EUXC_w