General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon is an American single-engine multirole fighter originally developed as a lightweight day fighter. Continual development turned it into one of the most widely operated combat aircraft in the world.[1]
Development
The F-16 grew from the United States Air Force Lightweight Fighter programme. The YF-16 first flew in 1974 and defeated the Northrop YF-17 in the competition. The aircraft entered USAF service in 1978 and was selected by a group of European NATO countries soon afterwards.
General Dynamics sold its aircraft business to Lockheed, now Lockheed Martin, in the 1990s. Production has continued for export customers through progressively improved blocks, including the current Block 70/72 configuration.[2]
Design
The Fighting Falcon introduced a relaxed-static-stability flight-control system, a side-stick controller and a reclined seat to improve pilot tolerance of high g-forces. Its frameless bubble canopy gives excellent visibility, and a single engine keeps the airframe relatively compact.
Later versions added improved radar, night and all-weather attack capability, targeting pods, beyond-visual-range missiles and precision weapons. The F-16V and Block 70/72 use an active electronically scanned array radar and updated cockpit and mission systems.[2]
Operational history
F-16s have served in air-defence, strike, suppression-of-enemy-air-defences and reconnaissance roles. They have seen combat with the United States, Israel, Pakistan, Turkey and other operators.
The aircraft remains in frontline service across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas, while numerous operators are modernising older aircraft or acquiring new-build examples.
Variants and operators
The aircraft family includes F-16A/B; F-16C/D; F-16E/F; F-16V. Equipment, weapons and mission systems differ among production blocks and national fleets.
Principal or notable users include United States Air Force; numerous international air forces. Some operators have retired early versions while others continue upgrades or new procurement.[1]
Specifications
Published performance figures depend on configuration, fuel, altitude and mission profile. Representative figures for the family include a maximum speed of Mach 2 and a range of Approximately 2,277 nmi (4,217 km) ferry range. The usual crew is 1 or 2, and power is provided by 1 × Pratt & Whitney F100 or General Electric F110 afterburning turbofan.[1]