The F-16 Fighting Falcon, officially the General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon, is a US-made single-engine supersonic multi-role fighter aircraft. It was developed in the 1970s in response to the need for a light fighter and first flew on February 2, 1974. Initially designed as a day fighter for air superiority, it evolved into a successful all-weather multirole platform with subsequent improvements. The aircraft's high maneuverability, modern avionics and relatively low cost have led to its use in the air forces of many countries. More than 4,600 F-16s have been produced since 1976 and are currently in active service in the inventories of more than 25 countries. Although its official name is “Fighting Falcon”, it is also known as “Savaşan Şahin” in Turkish and by its pilots as “Viper” (Viper).

History

Development Process: The origins of the F-16 date back to the US Air Force's post-Vietnam War search for a lightweight and agile fighter aircraft. Under the “Lightweight Fighter” program launched in 1972, General Dynamics' YF-16 prototype won the competition and made its first flight in January 1974. The first serial production model, the F-16A, flew in December 1976 and the first operational F-16 was delivered in January 1979. The US Air Force (USAF) commissioned the F-16 in 1978 and assigned it to the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing. The F-16B, a two-seat training version of the aircraft, was soon developed with a tandem cockpit layout.

Production and Dissemination: The F-16 was also produced for NATO allies through a joint production consortium. The consortium, formed by the United States and Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark and Norway, initially produced 348 F-16s for Europe, with the final assembly lines being set up in Belgium and the Netherlands. This ensured technology transfer and gave NATO allies a common aircraft platform. In 1993, the aircraft division of General Dynamics, the designer of the aircraft, was sold to Lockheed, which merged with Martin Marietta in 1995 and continued production under the Lockheed Martin umbrella. By the 2000s, the F-16 had become one of the largest jet fighter programs in the Western world, with total production numbers exceeding 4,600.

Introduction to Service and Evolution: While the F-16A/B models began to enter the US and NATO inventory in the 1980s, the F-16C/D models began to be produced with structural improvements and advanced electronics from the early 1980s. All F-16s delivered from November 1981 onwards were built with the necessary infrastructure for night operations, precision strike and beyond-line-of-sight engagement capabilities. As a result of this development program, the single-seat F-16C and twin-seat F-16D versions entered service with modern cockpit display systems and improved avionics. In the 1990s and 2000s, more advanced variants of the F-16 emerged, such as the Block 40/50 and 50+, with the Block 50/52 featuring more powerful engine options (General Electric F110) and advanced radars. The F-16 platform has also been the basis for derivatives to meet different needs: For example, the Mitsubishi F-2, a joint US-Japan production, was developed from this design.

Operational History: Since its introduction, the F-16 has played an active role in many conflicts. In the 1991 Gulf War, US F-16 squadrons flew more sorties than any other aircraft during Operation Desert Storm, attacking targets such as enemy airfields, missile launchers and armored units. During Operation Allied Force in Kosovo in 1999, F-16s flew a wide range of missions, including suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD), close air support and preventive air patrols. Israel, Pakistan and other user countries have used the F-16 to gain air superiority in various air battles and to conduct point operations to strategic locations. The aircraft's combat successes also made it a key component of counter-terrorism operations in the 2000s, with F-16s flying thousands of operational flights in Afghanistan and Iraq.

^{F-16 (}^Defence⁾

Technical Specifications

F-16 Design

The F-16 is an aerodynamically advanced aircraft designed to be lightweight and compact. The fuselage is made of highly alloyed aluminum and titanium; it can withstand maneuvers up to 9 g with full internal fuel. The F-16 is one of the first serial combat aircraft to be equipped with advanced flight control systems; a digital fly-by-wire electronic flight control system is used to continuously correct the instabilities of its aerodynamic structure. A frameless bubble canopy provides visibility for the pilot's situational awareness, and a 30° inclined ejection seat improves pilot endurance in high g-forces. The side control lever, located on the pilot's right side instead of the traditional center control lever, provides precise control in high maneuvers.

Engine & Performance

The F-16 is equipped with a single turbofan engine. Early models used the Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-200 engine (and later -220/-229 versions), while some later blocks used General Electric F110-GE-100/129 engines. Both engine types can produce about 27,000 lbf (120 kN) of thrust with afterburner. The aircraft's top speed is just over Mach 2 at high altitude (~2,180 km/h at 40,000 ft). Cruising speed is about 930 km/h and ferry range with internal fuel and external tanks can exceed 4,000 km. Combat radius (round-trip range) is ~550-600 km depending on mission profile. It has a service ceiling of 15,240 m (50,000 ft) and is capable of target acquisition and engagement even at these altitudes.

Radar and Avionics

The first F-16A/Bs were equipped with the Westinghouse (Northrop Grumman) AN/APG-66 doppler radar. The F-16C/Ds are equipped with the AN/APG-68 multifunction radar with increased range and resolution, and improved night and air-ground capabilities with the integration of advanced variants such as the APG-68(V)9 in Block 50+ and later versions. The newest configuration, the F-16V (Block 70/72), is equipped with the AN/APG-83 SABR AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar, providing target detection and tracking performance close to that of 5th generation aircraft. The aircraft's avionics architecture is modular and open to the integration of new systems; for example, advanced EGI (GPS/INS combined navigation system), digital flight computers and HOTAS (throttle and control integration) capabilities have been added over time. The cockpit of the F-16 features a wide-angle Head-Up Display (HUD), multi-function displays and advanced communications/navigation equipment. The Link-16 tactical data link, helmet-mounted sighting systems such as the JHMCS, electronic warfare warning receivers and ALE-47 countermeasure/flare systems have become standard on modern F-16s.

Weapon Systems

The F-16 can carry a wide range of internal and external weapons. A single-barreled 20 mm M61A1 Vulcan Gatling gun integrated into the left wing root provides standard firepower for close air combat and strike missions. There are a total of 11 weapon stations on the fuselage and wings: 2 at the wing tip, 6 under the wing and 3 under the fuselage. These stations can carry a total of ~7,700 kg of ammunition and external load. For air-to-air missions, it can be equipped with a variety of guided missiles, including the AIM-9 Sidewinder short-range and AIM-120 AMRAAM medium/long-range missiles. For air-ground missions, laser-guided or GPS-guided bombs (Paveway series, JDAM, etc.), AGM-65 Maverick missiles, AGM-88 HARM anti-radar missiles, AGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missiles or AGM-154 JSOW cruise missiles can be used. Some users have also certified their F-16s to carry nuclear bombs (B61 tactical bombs). The aircraft's versatility allows the configuration of munitions suitable for multiple types of missions in the same sortie.

^{Weapon Systems (}^{Lockheed Martin}⁾

Basic Information and Technical Specification

General Information

Full Name

The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
(English: F-16 Fighter Hawk)

NATO Code

Multirole Fighter (Multi-Purpose Fighter Aircraft)

Alias Name (Gayrish)

Viper (Never)

Type of Aircraft/Type

Single-engine, supersonic, multi-role (multirole) fighter

Developed Company/Manufacturer

General Dynamics (1970–1993)
Lockheed Corporation → Lockheed Martin (1993–present)

First Flight Date

2 February 1974 (YF-16 prototype); F-16A model 8 December 1976

Service Entry Date

January 1979 (USAF, 388. Hunter Wing)

User Countries

More than 25’ countries (USA, Turkey, Israel, Egypt, Greece, Taiwan, South Korea, UAE, Poland, etc.)

Total Production Quantity

4,600+ units (from 1976’ to present); delivered to more than 25’ countries

Range of Production Year

1976 – present (as of 2024, production is ongoing)

Body & Design

Length

15.06 Meters (F-16C)

Wing Span

9.96 Meters

Height

4.88 Meters

Empty Weight

~8,570 kg (F-16C)

Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)

~19,200 kg

Duty Load (External Ammunition and Fuel)

~7,700 kg

Maximum G Mass

Task Profile

Air-air, air-to-ground, SEAD, CAS, prevention, nuclear carrier

Engine & Performance

Engine Types

Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220/-229
General Electric F110-GE-100/-129

Impulse Power

About 120–129 kN (with afterburner)

Maximum Speed

Mach 2.05 (~2.180 km/h)

Cruising Speed

~930 km/h

Combat Radius

~550–600 km (depends on load profile)

Ferry Range

4,000+ km (with external tanks)

Climbing Rate

250 M/s (about 15,000 m/min)

Service Ceiling

15,240m (~50,000 ft)

Avionics and Systems

Radar Systems

AN/APG-66 (early models)
AN/APG-68(V)9 (block 50/52)
AN/APG-83 SABR AESA (F-16V)

Flight Control

Digital Fly-by-Wire
Unstable aerodynamic design

Cockpit Features

Wide HUD
Multifunctional digital displays
30° inclined seat
Bubble (bubble) canopy
Side-stick control handle
HOTAS (gas and controller joining)

Data & Communication

Link-16 data link
JHMCS (hook-mounted sights)
THE EGI (GPS + INS)

Electronic Warfare

Radar Warning Receiver (RWR)
ALE-47 flare/chaff
External ECM pods

Weapon Systems

Built-in Ball

1x 20 mm M61A1 Vulcan ball (511 rounds)

External Weapon Station

11 Pcs (2 wingtips, 6 wingtips, 3 underbody)

Maximum Gun Load

~7,700 kg ammunition

Air-Air Missiles

AIM-9 Sidewinder / AIM-9X
AIM-120 AMRAAM

Air-Place Missiles and Bombs

AGM-65 Maverick
AGM-88 HARM
AGM-154 JSOW
LGB, JDAM, MK-82, HGK, LGK
SOM (Turkey)
harpoon AGM-84
B61 (NATO nuclear role)

Turkey F-16

First Purchase Program

Peace Onyx I (1983)

Joint Production Facilities

TUSAS (TAI) and TEI

The First Entry to the inventory

March 11, 1988

Total Purchase

~270 aircraft (Block 30/40/50/50+)

Inventory Available (2024)

240+ active F-16C/D

Modernization Projects

CCIP (2005–2010)
Peace Onyx IV (2011–2012)
FREE (2020’s)
Block 70 “Viper” Purchase (40 aircraft ordered)
79 Modernization kits cancelled, domestic made

Usage Tasks

Border security
Air patrol
Peace Eagle E-7T integration
Educational, exploratory, prevention, offensive tasks

Countries Using

The F-16 is used by many countries around the world. Major users include the United States, Turkey, Israel, Egypt, South Korea and Greece. In addition, countries such as Bahrain, Bulgaria, Slovakia and Morocco have also ordered the F-16 Block 70/72.

The F-16 is one of the most widely used fourth-generation fighter aircraft globally. As of 2025, 2,084 F-16s are in active service worldwide, making it still the most common military jet fighter. In addition to the United States, more than 25 other countries have added the F-16 to their inventory. The US Air Force, Navy and National Guard squadrons collectively operate hundreds of F-16s, with more than 700 active F-16 fighters in the USAF inventory alone. The US uses F-16s for a variety of missions, including air superiority, close air support, SEAD (suppression of enemy air defenses) and tactical bombing. In addition, the USAF Thunderbirds acro-demonstration team has been flying F-16C/Ds for years.

Primary Users

After the United States, the countries with the largest F-16 fleets are Turkey, Israel, Egypt, South Korea, Greece and Taiwan. Turkey is currently the second largest user of F-16s after the United States, with 243 F-16C/Ds (of which 157 are in combat squadrons and the rest in training and reserve status). Israel has been operating the F-16A/B (“Netz”), F-16C/D (“Barak”) and F-16I (“Sufa”) since the 1980s, with around 200 operational. With more than 220 F-16s, the Egyptian Air Force operates air defense and ground attack capabilities with F-16 squadrons. NATO allies Greece has around 150 F-16s, South Korea around 170, and Taiwan around 140 (some of which are indigenous/co-produced). In addition, many other countries such as Belgium, the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, Poland, Pakistan, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Morocco, Jordan and Chile operate F-16s in different blocks and modernization levels. These countries use their F-16s for national airspace defense, deterrence, reconnaissance and, when necessary, combat operations. For example, Greece and Turkey mutually use F-16s for patrol and intercept missions in the Aegean, while Pakistan actively used F-16s in cross-border tensions in 2019. Although many European users are gradually replacing their older F-16s with 5th generation aircraft such as the F-35 Lightning II, the F-16 is still an important part of many air forces.

Use in Turkey

Inventory Entry

The Turkish Air Force's F-16 adventure began in the early 1980s. Seeking to replace its aging F-104 and F-5 fleets, Turkey signed an agreement with the United States in 1983 for the purchase of F-16s under the Peace Onyx I (Turkish code name: Öncel Barış I) program. Since this agreement stipulated joint production in Turkey, TAI and TEI companies were established in 1984 for the production of F-16s. The first eight aircraft were produced at General Dynamics facilities in the USA; two of them were sent to TAI facilities for assembly. The first F-16, which was assembled in Turkey, made its test flight on October 14, 1987 and was delivered to the Air Force on March 11, 1988. Within the scope of Peace Onyx I, a total of 160 aircraft (34 F-16C Block 30, 8 F-16D Block 30, 102 F-16C Block 40, 15 F-16D Block 40) were ordered, 154 of which were manufactured and assembled at TAI facilities.

In the mid-1990s, an additional 40 F-16C/D Block 50s were purchased through the Peace Onyx II program and this number was increased with options. With the Block 50s delivered between 1995 and 1999, the number of F-16s in the Turkish Air Force inventory exceeded 200. In the 2000s, a comprehensive modernization (CCIP - Common Configuration Implementation Program) was initiated with the Peace Onyx III program in order to keep the existing F-16 fleet modern. With the CCIP modernization carried out between 2005 and 2010, Block 40 and 50 models were brought to common standards; APG-68 (V9) radar, advanced mission computer, Link-16 data link, new generation AIM-9X Sidewinder and AIM-120C-7 AMRAAM missiles, national munitions such as Precision Guidance Kit (PUK) and ASELSAN produced targeting pods were integrated into the fleet. Thus, Turkish F-16s were upgraded to 4+ generation capabilities. In 2011-2012, 30 new F-16C/D Block 50+ were produced at TAI facilities as part of Peace Onyx IV. This latest batch came with more advanced radar (APG-68V9), targeting pod and cruise missile integration capabilities. In total, Turkey has acquired around 270 F-16C/D aircraft in four batches (some of which have been phased out over time due to training accidents and retirements).

Current Status and Fleets

As of the 2020s, the Turkish Air Force has 240+ F-16s in its active inventory. Most of these are single-seat F-16Cs and the rest are dual-control F-16D models. The aircraft in service are in the Block 30, 40 and 50 series; the oldest Block 30s are used for training and second-line missions, while the Block 40s and 50s serve in the main combat squadrons. F-16s have been in service with the Turkish Air Force since 1988, primarily in fighter (interceptor) and strike (bomber) roles. Turkish F-16 squadrons have become an essential element of the protection of the country's airspace, cross-border operations, reconnaissance and patrol (CAP) missions. Since the 1990s, Turkish F-16 pilots have taken an active role in patrols and dogfights in the Aegean Sea, with the 2006 accident involving a Turkish and a Greek F-16 being one of the examples of this tension. In 2015, Turkish F-16s engaged and shot down a Su-24 aircraft that violated the country's border. F-16s have also provided close air support to ground forces and destroyed critical targets in the Turkish Armed Forces' cross-border operations in Syria and Iraq (e.g. Euphrates Shield, Olive Branch).

Modernization Programs

Turkey is conducting national modernization projects to extend the technological life of the F-16s in its inventory and reduce foreign dependency. The ÖZGÜR Project, led by ASELSAN, is renewing the avionics systems of the old Block 30 F-16s with national capabilities. According to the information provided by İsmail Demir, President of the Presidency of the Republic of Turkey and President of Defence Industries, in 2023, the modernization of Block 30 has been completed within the scope of the Özgür project, and these aircraft will be used in the field as of the end of 2023. In the continuation of the project, Block 40 and 50 aircraft are planned to be equipped with indigenous avionics and mission computers. In this way, F-16s are expected to be completely upgraded by Turkey in areas such as electronic warfare, the use of a sniper warhead, national cruise missile (SOM) and smart ammunition integration. On the other hand, Turkey has requested the US to purchase 40 new F-16 Block 70 (F-16V) and Viper-level modernization kits for around 80 existing F-16s in 2021. After a long diplomatic process, the US State Department approved the sale of 40 new F-16Vs and 79 modernization kits in January 2024. However, in November 2024, Yaşar Güler, the Minister of National Defence, announced that the purchase of 79 modernization kits had been abandoned and that this process would be carried out by TUSAŞ with national capabilities. Güler stated that the purchase of 40 F-16 Block 70 Vipers was proceeding with a $7 billion package and that $1.4 billion had been prepaid for these aircraft. This development demonstrates Turkey's competence and determination to modernize its own F-16s. The number of Block 30/40/50 aircraft in the Turkish Air Force inventory is over 200, and most of this fleet will be kept active until the 2030s through the Free and similar programs.

Peace Eagle and Integration

The E-7T Peace Eagle Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEWC) aircraft, which entered the inventory in 2014, also play a role in the effective use of Turkish F-16s. Thanks to the Peace Eagle radar network, F-16s have a wide operational picture and gain an advantage in target detection and tracking. This integrated structure increases the power of F-16 squadrons in Turkey's airspace control.

^{F-16 and Block 70 Viper, (}^{Defence Turk}⁾

Modernization and Future Projections

F-16V and New Production

The F-16 platform continues to evolve into the 2020s. Lockheed Martin is marketing the F-16V “Viper” configuration, which has been upgraded to meet today's needs. The F-16V is the most advanced version of the F-16, equipped with modern AESA radar (APG-83), advanced cockpit displays, a new mission computer and advanced data links. While the US does not continue to purchase new F-16s for its own inventory, the production line is active for export customers. In 2019, F-16 production resumed at the Greenville, South Carolina facility and Block 70/72 orders were received from countries such as Bahrain, Slovakia and Bulgaria. For example, Bahrain ordered 16 F-16Vs, Slovakia 14 F-16Vs and Bulgaria 8+8 F-16Vs. The manufacturer reported delays in deliveries due to the increasing demand and difficulties in keeping up with the orders. This shows that the F-16 is still a preferred option in an evolving world.

Modernization in User Countries

Current F-16 users are undertaking various modernization programs to renew their fleets. Greece has started upgrading 83 of the approximately 150 F-16s in its Air Force to F-16V with Lockheed Martin support and plans to complete the upgrade by 2027. Taiwan is upgrading its entire F-16A/B fleet to the F-16V standard (F-16A/B Block 20 => F-16V) with its own funds and US support. South Korea and Singapore are also implementing AESA radar and new avionics modernization projects for their F-16C/D aircraft. Pakistan is carrying out mid-fuselage life extension and electronic modernization of its F-16s with the contribution of Turkish companies such as ASELSAN. The United Arab Emirates is already using similar capabilities with its advanced Block 60 “Desert Falcon” F-16s. Thus, even though the F-16 is a 4th generation platform, it will remain in service until the 2030s, gaining 4.5 generation capabilities in many air forces.

National Combat Aircraft and Its Replacement

In projections for the future of the F-16, 5th generation fighters or indigenous projects are at the forefront for many countries. The US Air Force plans to gradually replace the F-16 with the F-35 Lightning II and future 6th generation fighters. Many NATO allies have similarly opted for the F-35 or have turned to next-generation European fighter jet projects. After being excluded from the F-35 program, Turkey was forced to use its existing F-16 fleet for a longer period of time, while at the same time accelerating the development of its own 5th generation fighter. The Turkish Aerospace Industries' (TAI) National Combat Aircraft (NCA) project, officially known as the TF-X “KAAN”, reached the prototype stage in 2023. It is envisaged that this aircraft will gradually replace the F-16s when it enters the inventory starting in the 2030s. Until then, however, the F-16s will be kept in service through structural improvements (e.g. airframe life extension programs) and avionics/weapon modernizations.

Assessment and Impact

The F-16 Fighting Falcon is recognized as one of the most successful and effective designs in military aviation. Despite being a lightweight, single-engine aircraft, it has been able to perform many of the roles that twin-engine fighters (e.g. F-15, Su-27) can fulfill. During its more than 40 years of service, it has participated in air power around the world and has been used in various exercises and operations. Its success in different environments and threats, from the Gulf War to counter-terrorism operations, has made the F-16 a reliable platform for its users. Strategically, the F-16 has contributed to standardization and common operational capabilities within the NATO alliance. Joint production programs have enabled technology transfer between allied nations and reduced costs by using common infrastructure for maintenance and logistics. For example, Turkey and many European countries have contributed to the development of their domestic defense industries by producing and modernizing their own F-16s. The widespread use of the F-16 has facilitated the joint action of allied air forces in times of crisis and created deterrence.

Technological Impacts: The digital fly-by-wire system was first used on a widely produced combat aircraft and has since become standard on modern combat aircraft. Aerodynamic design and control systems developed for high maneuverability matured with the F-16. Features such as the bubble canopy and side stick design, which maximize pilot visibility, have been used in many subsequent aircraft. The experience gained from the F-16 played a role in the development of the 5th generation aircraft (e.g. F-35). In addition, as an example of the successful application of the modular design concept, the F-16 has demonstrated that it can be continuously updated with different blocks and versions; this flexibility is an important quality in today's defense platforms.

Global Impact: The F-16 program has strengthened US defense cooperation with its allies. The export of the aircraft has created a comprehensive ecosystem in recipient countries, from pilot training to maintenance and repair infrastructure. The F-16 experience of dozens of countries facilitated the development of a common language and tactics in international operations. Even today, the F-16, as a fighter jet, operates with more than 2,000 active platforms. This has made the F-16 more than just an airplane; it has become an element of global air power balances.

Variants: Technical and Operational

Major Variants

F-16A/B: Initial production models; A single-seat, B double-seater training version

F-16C/D: Enhanced avionics and weapon systems; C single seat, D double seat

F-16E/F (Block 60): A version developed by BAE Systems specifically for the UAE

F-16V (Viper): The latest modernization; AESA includes radar, advanced cockpit and avionics

F-16 Block 70/72: New production aircraft; includes advanced radar systems and structural improvements

F-16A/B (First Production Models)

The F-16A and F-16B are the first main variants of the F-16. The F-16A is the single-seat basic model, while the F-16B is the two-seat training version; the F-16B's forward fuselage fuel tank volume has been slightly reduced due to the second cockpit. Entering service in the late 1970s, this light and agile fighter was primarily designed for close air combat and daylight air superiority, but quickly gained multi-role capabilities. For example, in the Block 15 configuration, maneuverability was enhanced by the addition of larger horizontal stabilized surfaces.

The early F-16A/Bs did not have advanced radar or day/night all-weather capability, but they were still capable of precision ground attacks up to a range of 500 miles (800+ km), towing payloads up to nine G's in the air, and close combat with infrared guided missiles such as the Sidewinder. Upgrades from the early 1980s onwards gave all F-16A/Bs the ability to use precision-guided munitions, night vision systems and beyond-limited-visibility-range (BVR) capabilities. This made the F-16 an effective platform for both air-to-air combat and air-to-ground attacks.

Users: The F-16A/B was originally built for the US Air Force and NATO. Together with the United States, Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway formed the first F-16A/Bs joint production consortium and put these aircraft into service from 1979. Israel (Netz) and Pakistan were among the first countries to receive the F-1980s F-16A/B. Many of these early-model F-16s were kept in service by gaining advanced avionics and weapon capabilities with modernization programs made in the following years (for example, they were upgraded to the F-16 AM/BM standard with Mid-Life Modernization in European countries).

F-16C/D (Enhanced Multi-Role Models)

F-16C (single seat) and F-16D (double seat) Models

The F-16C and F-16D models are variants developed in the middle of the 1980s. Produced after November 1981, all F-16s are constructed in accordance with advanced avionics systems and multi-role mission equipment as structural and electronic infrastructure. The resulting F-16C/D is an advanced version of its predecessor, A/B, and is equipped with next-generation cockpit gauges, digital flight control systems, and enhanced combat systems. The first block generation of the F-16C/Detn (Block 25) integrated the APG-68 Doppler radar and advanced cockpit electronics, allowing the aircraft to operate in all weather conditions. In this way, the F-16 has gained the ability to target and attack at night and in bad weather conditions. In addition, in 1990, compatibility with air-to-air missiles such as AIM-120 AMRAAM, which are beyond sight range, has gained F-16C/Dutye BVR (Beyond Visual Range) combat capacity.

With subsequent production blocks, the capabilities of the F-16C/D are gradually expanded. For example, stronger engine options (General Electric F110 or Pratt & Whitney F100) were introduced with Block 30/100, and the integration of the AGM-88 HARM anti-radiation missile could serve as suppression of enemy air defense systems (SEAD). Following this, the Block 40/42 “Night Falcon” configuration is integrated with the LANTIRN targeting and navigation pods and wide-angle HUD, improving night-time attack capabilities such as night vision and the use of precision-guided ammunition. Finally, the Block 1990/52 series F-16C/D, which went into service in the middle of 1990’, is equipped with longer-range advanced radars and increased engine propulsion; specifically the US Air Force “Wild Weasel”, referred to as SEAD 8 block 4G Vans In this way, F-16C/D can be used in electronic warfare missions such as air-to-ground attack, close air support and air superiority as well as detecting and destroying enemy radars.FAD 1990s from the Gulf War, the sensitive Balkans, Afghanistan, and Iraq, to be a bomber.

Users: F-16C/D has entered the inventory of many countries around the world, mainly in the US. The United States has converted all of its active fleets to F-1990 ’6C/D models and used them in a variety of roles, including air combat, ground targets, close air support, and SEAD. The Turkish Air Force has a large fleet of F-1987 F-16C/D Block 30/40/50 aircraft produced under license from 1687 and uses these aircraft in regional conflicts and NATO operations. In addition, countries such as Egypt, Greece, South Korea, Singapore, Poland, Indonesia, and Pakistan have put into service F-16C/D in different block configurations. Greece uses Block 50/52+ aircraft and develops them with modernization; South Korea and Singapore operated their F-1990C/D (Block 32/52) aircraft in the 1690s as their primary combat aircraft for many years. Countries such as Jordan and Morocco have also built fleets with second-hand F-16C/D purchases. Generally speaking, Belgium, Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Portugal, Poland, Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Turkey in the Middle East; over 25’ins in Asia, including Pakistan, Indonesia, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan have different variants of the F-16 in inventory.

F-16E/F (Block 60 “Desert Falcon”)

F-16E and F-16F (Block 60)

The F-16E and F-16F are conventional F-2000 ’ variants developed in the years and are called Block 60. This model has been specifically designed to meet the operational requirements of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Air Force and the relevant financing has been provided by the UAE. The F-16E (single seat) and F-16F (double seat) variants have several structural and avionics differences compared to previous F-16C/D models.

One of the obvious changes in these variants is the conformal fuel tanks integrated into the fuselage of the aircraft. These tanks run from the back of the cockpit to the wing roots, expanding the flight range by increasing the internal fuel capacity. Thanks to the conformal tanks, the need for external fuel tank usage is decreasing. The F-16E/F is also the first F-16 variant to be equipped with the AN/APG-80 active electronic interlaced array (AESA) radar system produced by Northrop Grumman. This radar provides longer range, simultaneous multiple target tracking, and higher target detection sensitivity compared to the APG-68 mechanical scanning radar.

The General Electric F110-GE-132 turbofan engine used in the aircraft produces about 32,000 pounds of propulsion. This engine integration is one of the high-priority engine applications on the F-16 platform. The aircraft also includes a variety of modern avionics elements, including advanced mission computers, large-color multi-purpose displays, and integrated electronic warfare systems.

Users: F-16E/F "Desert Falcon" is a variant used exclusively by the United Arab Emirates. Actually, approximately 2005 F-80 F-16E/F aircraft put into service since 2005, have been used for long-range offensive, deep attack and air patrol missions These aircraft are designed specifically for range and sensor system performance in line with regional mission profiles. The systems in the Block 60 standard were evaluated to differ in radar and engine capabilities compared to other configurations on the F-16 platform.

F-16I (Israel “Sufa” Variant)

F-16I Sufa (Block 52+ Based Israeli Variant)

The F-16I Sufa (“Storm ”) is an F-16 variant with double seats and advanced avionics. The basis of this model is the F-16D Block 52 configuration, which is reconfigured with various domestic modifications. The F-16I entered the Israeli Air Force inventory in 2004 and was configured to meet long-range mission profiles.

The dual conformal fuel tanks are developed by Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) and increase the internal fuel capacity of the aircraft and expand operational range. Conformal tanks are designed in accordance with the aerodynamic structure and are configured to reduce the need for external fuel tanks. Thanks to this structure, the pylons under the wing can be divided into ammunition carrying capacity, thus increasing the air-to-ground ammunition transport volume.

There is a large volume back (dorsal) spine compartment extending from the back of the cockpit to vertical stabilization. This area includes electronic warfare systems not available in standard F-16 configurations, flare/chaff distribution units, and satellite communication devices. Avionic hardware includes components such as the Elbit Systems production task computer, digital display processors, multi-function indicators, night vision compatible lighting systems, data linkage, and satellite communication systems. Systems for pilots include the Elbit production DASH IV helmet-mounted targeting system. This system allows pilots to perform target detection and engagement via line of sight. Such targeting systems increase availability in short-range engagement and high maneuver environments.

The F-16I is configured to be equipped with both American-made munitions (AIM-120 AMRAAM, AGM-65 Maverick) and Israeli-made Python-4/5 air-to-air missiles and Spice-guided munitions.

Users: F-16I Sufa is used only by the Israeli Air Force. Israel has ordered 102 F-16Is under the Peace Marble V program and these aircraft were delivered between 2004–2009. F-16I aircraft have also been used in air patrol and deterrence activities in addition to long-range offensive missions.In 2007, the alleged nuclear facility of the target was used in various sources.

F-16V (Block 70/72 “Viper”)

F-16V (Block 70/72)

The F-16V is the variant, nicknamed “Viper” and representing the current configuration of the F-16 fighter jet. Introduced in the mid-2010’ years, this model covers both the modernization of existing F-16 platforms and the production of new aircraft with up-to-date technology. The F-16V (Block 70/72) is a fourth-generation fighter, but is equipped with some fifth-generation avionics systems.

One of the most obvious technological changes in this configuration is the integration of the Northrop Grumman production AN/APG-83 AESA radar. This radar offers higher resolution, range and the capacity to track multiple targets at the same time than the APG-68 radar with previous generation mechanical scanning. The aircraft is also equipped with a modernized mission computer and updated software.

The cockpit hardware includes a high-resolution color center display (Center Pedestal Display), a numeric moving map, and other advanced indicators. New digital flight control systems and integrated electronic warfare equipment (for example, the “Viper Shield”, which includes a digital radar warning receiver and mixing systems) increase the adaptability of the aircraft to the threats it may face in mission environments. In addition, the automatic ground anti-collision system (Auto-GCAS) is among the standard safety components of the F-16V configuration. This system performs automatic maneuvers to prevent the plane from hitting the ground by being activated in situations such as the pilot's temporary loss of consciousness or distraction.

The F-16V configuration allows the F-16 platform to remain available in modern combat scenarios. In this context, thanks to advanced radar systems and weapon integration, it is configured to suit air-to-air and air-to-ground duty profiles. Compatible munitions include AIM-9X, advanced AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, and long-range air-to-ground cruise missiles such as the AGM-158 JASSM. Thanks to improvements to Datalink systems, the F-16V has the infrastructure to work in coordination with other platforms in terms of interoperability.

Users: The F-16V standard is used in various countries, both as the modernization of existing F-16 aircraft and as a new production. In late 2010, Taiwan launched a program to upgrade approximately 140 F-16A/B aircraft to the F-16V standard. Greece aims to bring 2020 F-16C/D Block 52+ aircraft to F-16V level by 2027 within the framework of the modernization program launched in 16.

Countries that order a new production F-16V (Block 70) include Bahrain (16 units), Slovakia (14 units), and Bulgaria (8 units). Production of these aircraft is being carried out on the F-16 production line in South Carolina, with initial deliveries beginning in 2024. Morocco is both modernizing its existing F-16 fleet and delivering a new F-16V supply. In 2023, Jordan signed an agreement to supply 8 F-16 Block 70s. Romania, on the other hand, is considering the transition to the F-16V configuration following second-hand F-16 purchases.