The U.S. has no plans yet to give up its fourth-generation F-16 Fighting Falcons
Despite the fact that the fourth-generation F-16 Fighting Falcon multi-role fighter aircraft debuted some 50 years ago, the United States has no plans to abandon them just yet.
What we know
The F-16s, which replaced the F-15 Eagle, have not lost their relevance in 50 years. They are still good aircraft, as evidenced by the wide geography of operation.
The United States is working on a sixth-generation fighter aircraft under the NGAD (Next-Generation Air Dominance) program and is in full swing to buy F-35 Lighting II aircraft. Despite all this, the F-16 Fighting Falcon will remain in service with the U.S. Air Force.
Moreover, the U.S. Air Force will continue to operate the fighter aircraft of the fourth generation for at least 20 years. But to do so, they will have to be upgraded by adding new avionics, radar, armament and a special coating that can reduce radar signature.
Source: The National Interest
Image: Military
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