Singapore has modernised all F-16C/D/D/D+ Block 52/52+ fighter jets - the planes have a new radar, Python 5 missile, LJDAM bombs and will be able to fly for more than 10 more years

Singapore has completed the modernisation of its fleet of fourth-generation F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters. The dwarf country's air force is believed to have 60 aircraft in service.

Here's What We Know

Singapore's Ministry of Defence said in a statement that the fighter upgrades will extend the F-16 Fighting Falcon's service life to the middle of the next decade. After the upgrade, the aircraft will be able to repel a wider range of aerial threats.

The upgrade brings a new active phased array radar. The defence establishment says the improved radar has an increased range and allows the fighter to track more targets.

The F-16 has also gained the ability to launch new air-to-air missiles. Specifically, the Python 5 from Israeli company Rafael. A few weeks ago, the Singapore Air Force publicly demonstrated the F-16 with the Israeli missile for the first time. Another improvement concerns the addition of support for the LJDAM (Laser Joint Direct Attack Munition) laser-guided smart bombs.

Singapore first announced plans for a mid-life upgrade (MLU) 10 years ago. The fighters to be upgraded were the F-16C/D/D/D+ Block 52/52+.

Source: Janes