US Air Force thinks about replacing F-16 Fighting Falcon with a new fighter. As reported by NPlus1 with reference to Aviation Week, the Air Force command intends to assess the feasibility of such a replacement.
US Air Force launches research program, within the framework of which we intend to assess the feasibility of replacing F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters with new combat aircraft. Research must be completed by the beginning 2023 fiscal year.
Earlier on, that the Air Force is considering replacing the F-16 with a new fighter, said the chief of staff of the United States Air Force Charles Brown. he explained, that if such a decision is made, new aircraft will be generations “four and a half”. The fighter will have to have an open architecture, the ability to quickly update the software and surpass the old fighter in some characteristics. At the same time, he must perform the same tasks, as the F-16.
F-16 - fourth generation multifunctional light fighter. He entered service with the US Air Force 1979 year, and today it is one of the most advanced combat vehicles. According to the World Air Forces directory 2020, in service with the US Air Force 790 fighters of this type.
With a maximum takeoff weight of 21,8 tons, The F-16 is capable of carrying up 7,7 tons of bombs and missiles for 9 suspension points. combat radius – 1,7 thousands of kilometers, full speed – 2200 km / h. The fighter is armed with a 20 mm.
