General dynamics f 16 fighting falcon. Original production models included the f 16a single seat combat version and the f 16b combat capable two seat trainer. Contentsshow history since the beginning the f 16 was designed as a workhorse of low cost which could carry out various types of missions and be maintained. The general dynamics f 16 fighting falcon is a single engine supersonic multirole fighter aircraft originally developed by general dynamics for the united states air force. Designed as an air superiority day fighter it evolved into a successful all weather multirole aircraft.
The f 16 fighting falcon is a compact multi role fighter aircraft. She is still in service today with well over 4500 aircraft built since it went into production in 1976. Over 4500 aircraft have. General dynamics f 16 fighting falcon.
The general dynamics f 16 fighting falcon is a multi role fighter built by the united states and used by dozens of countries worldwide. In an air combat role the f. Approximately 3000 operational f 16s are in service today in 25 countries. It is highly maneuverable and has proven itself in air to air combat and air to surface attack.
A diamond formation of nine general dynamics f 16 fighting falcon aircraft from squadrons 727 and 730 at karup air force base in denmark. Designed as an air superiority day fighter it evolved into a successful all weather multirole aircraft. The general dynamics f 16 fighting falcon first flew on january 20 1974 and entered service with the united states air force usaf on august 17 1978. A large number of variants of the general dynamics f 16 fighting falcon have been produced by general dynamics lockheed martin and various licensed manufacturers.
The details of the f 16 variants along with major modification programs and derivative designs significantly influenced by the f 16 are described below. The general dynamics f 16 fighting falcon is a single engine supersonic multirole fighter aircraft originally developed by general dynamics its aviation unit now part of lockheed martin for the united states air force usaf. The f 16 was designed in the early 1970s as an alternative to fighter aircraft that had grown increasingly heavy and unmaneuverable. Designed as an air superiority day fighter it evolved into a successful all weather multirole.
Aeronautics home the f 16 remains the worlds most successful combat proven multirole fighter. 18th of june 2005 at the royal international air tattoo raf fairford.