Key Points – The F-16 Fighting Falcon, a mainstay of the US Air Force and over 25 allied nations for nearly five decades, remains in high demand due to its blend of affordability, performance, and continuous modernization.
-The latest Block 70/72 “Viper” variant incorporates fifth-generation technology, including an advanced AESA radar and a modernized cockpit, extending its service life to 12,000 hours.
-Despite the USAF no longer purchasing new F-16s, manufacturer Lockheed Martin has a production backlog of over 100 jets for export customers like Turkey and Taiwan, solidifying the F-16’s role as a critical and relevant multi-role fighter well into the future.
The F-16 Fighter Won’t Go Away
The venerable F-16 Falcon is currently approaching five full decades of operational combat service. Initially manufactured by the General Dynamics Corporation and later sold to Lockheed Martin, the plane has long been one of the most commercially successful fighter jet programs.
It has also found a wide variety of export customers in addition to the USAF.
In total, more than 4,600 F-16 Fighting Falcons have entered service worldwide, and the aircraft remains in service in over 25 different nations.
The F-16’s legacy has been marked by its longevity, achieved through continuous upgrades to the platform and a balance of affordability and performance that has long set the aircraft apart.
Currently one of Lockheed Martin’s most significant financial assets, the F-16 Fighting Falcon appears to be in a strong position, passing through the midpoint of 2025. The aircraft currently has a strong production backlog, meaning that deliveries will undoubtedly continue into the near future.
However, will the extensive backlog deter many potential customers who may look elsewhere for an affordable, well-rounded, and versatile aircraft?
The F-16 Has Been a Hugely Successful Aircraft
The USAF has received over 2,231 F-16s throughout its history.
Currently, the USAF operates 922 F-16s. While the USAF no longer purchases new F-16s, production continues for export purposes, according to Simple Flying, with improved versions being built for foreign military partners.
The F-16 remains a highly sought-after combat jet globally, with numerous countries placing orders for the advanced Block 70/72 version.
The F-16 Block 70/72 Version Brings New Life To The Aircraft
The F-16 Block 70/72, also known as the F-16V, is the latest production version of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, incorporating advanced avionics, a new radar, and an extended service life. Its design compliments 5th-generation fighters, such as the F-35 and F-22.
Advanced Avionics: The Block 70/72 features a modernized cockpit with a new Center Pedestal Display (CPD), which provides critical tactical imagery to the pilot on a high-resolution 6″ x 8″ screen. Lockheed Martin says the display provides color-moving maps, large and easier-to-manage air-to-air Situation Displays, zoom functionality, and more. I
Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar: The APG-83 AESA radar provides enhanced all-weather targeting and situational awareness, leveraging technology from the F-22 and F-35. Many say that the APG-83 AESA is the closest thing an F-16 can achieve in terms of F-35 performance, given the limitations of the jet.
Electronic Warfare Suite: The Viper Shield’s active and passive electronic warfare system enhances survivability.
The AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield is an internally mounted electronic warfare suite designed to enhance the F-16’s survivability against modern radar and electronic threats. It integrates directly with the aircraft’s avionics suite and operates in conjunction with the APG-83 AESA radar.
Extended Service Life: Structural upgrades and design improvements extend the aircraft’s service life to 12,000 hours.
Improved Engine: The F110-GE-132 engine offers enhanced performance. The GE engine has over 11 million flight hours and serves as the primary engine for the F-15 and F-16. The F110-GE-132 has a thrust class of 33,000 pounds.
Backlog Creating Potential Issues In the Future
Lockheed Martin entered 2025 with a production backlog exceeding 120 aircraft, which included a high-profile purchase of 40 Block 70 jets slated for acquisition by the Turkish government.
This order is just one of many examples of the global interest in the F-16 fighter, which has long been a favorite among North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members and their allies.
Besides Turkey, Argentina, Slovakia, and Taiwan are also interested in acquiring the F-16. However, given the backlog, Sweden’s Saab JAS-39 Gripen is an outstanding aircraft that could tempt other buyers to consider it.
For the US, it makes sense to upgrade the Block 70/72, as 922 aircraft are still in use. The F-16 is a perfect aircraft to work alongside fifth-generation F-22s and F-35s. The aircraft continues to perform well for the US and its allies.
About the Author:
Steve Balestrieri is a National Security Columnist. He served as a US Army Special Forces NCO and Warrant Officer. In addition to writing on defense, he covers the NFL for PatsFans.com and is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA). His work was regularly featured in many military publications.
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