Stealth is way overrated.  Unless you have a cloaking device, there is a chance that you will be detected.  If you are detected and lack the ability to outrun or outfight, you will be killed.  Therefore, you have to operate as if you don't have stealth capability in the first place.  The F-117's in the first Gulf war were escorted by F-15's.  The F-111's were much better off, because they hauled ass.

Why would a plane need anti-satellite capability if we already have planes and other systems to deal with them?  It's not like you need to be armed against them in case you're attacked.  I would think that would be more of a strategic mission, in the first place.

You know, those are some great points. So why is that such a critical feature for the F-35 in its support of the ground mission?
Air Force sure won't buy anything new without those features.

F-35 has the ability to run or fight.  If you can avoid detection, obviously you mission will be easier and safer.  If detection = death, it better be invisibility rather than stealth.

ETA:  From the OP...

"The two-seat, twin-engine jet is designed to tackle low vulnerability missions at a fraction of the cost of the planes that now take on those assignments."

No stealth required.

The Scorpion Flies

2 years from drawing board to first flight, and ugly as sin.

Where do they put the GAU 8 in that thing?