I think we need more of cheaper planes that are easily replaceable

Doesn’t Europe have a good number of airframes that fit that need? Rafales, Eurofighters, Gripens come to mind. F18’s too, but I recognize those aren’t domestic.

I look at these F35’s as a the current best solution for SEAD and air dominance roles in a potential conflict. Once that’s taken care of these other less capable platforms could play their part.