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General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon operators

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The United States Air Force (USAF) and four of its NATO partners are the primary operators of F-16 aircraft. With the evolution of sales under Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contracts, many other air forces have also acquired F-16s. As of 2005, most nations that have been sold F-16s continue to use them.

The F-16 is still in demand today, and many air forces are looking to replace aging inventories with F-16s. Because the USAF has steadily upgraded its F-16 inventory, it will sometimes sell older aircraft it considers obsolete as surplus Excess Defense Articles (EDAs) or as "knockdown" aircraft to supplement spares inventories.

United States operators

USAF Thunderbirds over New York City

Several commands of the United States Air Force (USAF) as well as the United States Navy (USN) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) use various models of the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

United States Air Force

The USAF operates 1,245 F-16s with 701 with active forces, 490 with Air National Guard and 54 with Reserve. These are broken down to 1 F-16A Block 15, 197 F-16C/D Block 25, 350 F-16C/D Block 30, 51 F-16C/D Block 32, 222 F-16C/D Block 40, 174 F-16C/D Block 42, 198 F-16C/D Block 50, 52 F-16C/D Block 52.[1]

Air Combat Command

Air Combat Command (ACC) is the the descendant of the merger of the Tactical Air Command (TAC) and Strategic Air Command (SAC). ACC is the primary combat aircraft operator of the United States Air Force. Originally, all new F-16s would be delivered to TAC or ACC and then transferred to other commands, but now aircraft are often delivered directly to the other commands.

Air Education and Training Command

The Air Education and Training Command (AETC) provides for most of the US Air Force's F-16 training facilities and operations. The command also provides for training of foreign air forces operating the F-16, with two squadrons providing training for Singapore and Taiwan.

Prototype F-16 alongside the prototype F-17

The descendant of the merger of the Air Force Systems Command (AFSC) and the Air Force Logistics Command (AFLC), Air Force Materiel Command is responsible for providing, testing, and maintaining US Air Force equipment. As such, it plays a large part in the F-16 program, both in testing the aircraft and its weapon systems. It utilizes the F-16 for numerous tests for weapons equipping many US Air Force aircraft. Additionally, it operates overhaul programs to maintain the F-16 fleet of not only the US Air Force, but several foreign air forces as well.

Air Force Reserve Command

The delivery of the F-16 to the Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) marked the first aircraft type to be delivered new, changing the long policy of merely passing older airframes on from the active forces to the Air Force Reserve. AFRC currently operates Block 25, 30, and 32 aircraft.

Air National Guard

As with the Air Force Reserve, the F-16 marked the transition of the Air National Guard (ANG) to a viable fighting force complementary to active-duty units, as opposed to the second-line force of out-of-date aircraft it had been. The F-16 remains a key part of the ANG force structure.

Pacific Air Forces

Air National Guard aircraft over Kunsan Air Base, South Korea

Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) was an early recipient of the F-16 and PACAF operates the latest models of the F-16 today.

US Air Forces in Europe

Once PACAF began receiving its F-16, US Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) became a recipient of the F-16. USAFE F-16s have been common participants in most recent US military operations in Europe and the Middle East.

United States Navy

While the United States Navy chose the competing F/A-18 Hornet for development as a carrier-based strike fighter, the service still had a need for an aggressor aircraft to supplement the A-4 Skyhawk and F-5E Tiger II aircraft posing as enemy fighters to help train Navy pilots in dissimilar air combat training (DACT). The lightweight F-16 was ideal for the job, and the F-16N version was specifically developed for the task. With removal of the internal cannon (compensated by ballast), the F-16N and two-seat TF-16N served for a number of years before retirement. The F-16 was reintroduced to the aggressor role for the US Navy with the acquisition of some of the Pakistani F-16A/B-15OCU aircraft embargoed before delivery to that country and they remain in use today at the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center (NSAWC) at NAS Fallon, Nevada. The US Navy operates 40 F-16s.[2]

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Not a military force, NASA plays a vital role in research and development of aerospace technology. Its fleet contains two exotic F-16 models (bailed from USAF), the F-16XL and F-16A AFTI, both involved in researching advanced technologies for application to not only the F-16, but other aircraft as well. Additionally, a number of mundane F-16s have been operated by NASA as chase aircraft and engine testbeds.

Original NATO partners

Once selected by the United States, it was further decided to form a partnership between the United States Air Force, then beginning development of the plane for service, and nations of the NATO alliance who had a similar need for a lightweight fighter. Four such nations chose to join the development effort, and became part as well of the production and sub-contracting work to build the Fighting Falcon. The four European partners, collectively known as the European Participating Governments (EPG), are Belgium, Denmark, The Netherlands, and Norway; their air forces are likewise referred to as the European Participating Air Forces (EPAF).

  • F-16 Fighting Falcon from Royal Danish Air Force
    F-16 Fighting Falcon from Royal Danish Air Force
  • Dutch F-16AM
    Dutch F-16AM
  • F-16 from Norway
    F-16 from Norway

Belgium

Belgium was the largest initial buyer of the F-16 of the four original NATO partners, and also was a primary producer of the aircraft as part of the partnership. Belgium's initial order brought delivery of 116 F-16A and F-16B in blocks 1, 5, 10, and 15, beginning in 1979, and was completed in 1985. A follow-on order for 44 F-16A-15OCU and F-16B-15OCU was completed in 1991.

Denmark

Denmark was the smallest member of the NATO partnership, with the Royal Danish Air Force accepting 58 aircraft under Denmark's initial order. A small follow-on order brought a further twelve aircraft to Denmark, and two further attrition replacement orders have been placed, totalling seven planes between them.

Netherlands

The Netherlands, like Belgium, made substantial orders for the F-16, and hosted assembly facilities for the aircraft at the Fokker plant. A total of 102 aircraft were initially ordered, but these were followed by substantial follow-on orders for a total of 111 additional aircraft. 52 of these were F-16A/B-15OCU aircraft. These orders brought total Dutch F-16 deliveries to 213. 108 of them received the Mid-Life-Update (MLU).

Norway

Norway joined the original NATO partnership to replace its aging F-104 Starfighter squadrons. Norway ordered 72 F-16A/B aircraft, but unlike the other partners, there was no follow-up, except for a single order for 2 F-16B-15OCU aircraft as attrition replacements. All the aircraft have been scheduled for the Mid-Life-Update (MLU), and received new, helmet-mounted sighting systems.

Europe

Greece

After protracted negotiations the Hellenic Air Force ordered the F-16 in 1985. FMS program PEACE XENIA was begun with delivery of 40 F-16C/D Block 30 aircraft in 1989 and 1990. This was followed by an order for 40 F-16C/D-50 Block 50 fighters, delivered in 1997 and 1998. In June 2000 a further order for 50 F-16C/D Block 52 was made with an option of 10 more fighters, exercised in September 2001. All 60 aircraft (40 C-model aircraft and 20 missionized D-model) were delivered by June 2004. On December 2005 the Greek government signed an LOA for the delivery of 30 new Block 52+ F-16s with an option on 10 more. The first batch consists of 20 C-models and 10 D-models, while first deliveries are due in 2009.

Italy

Italy has decided on the Eurofighter Typhoon as its next generation of air-defense fighter, however this aircraft is not yet ready for deployment. In the meantime, some Panavia Tornado jets from the United Kingdom were leased to cover the gap. This lease ran out in 2003, without the Typhoon being ready for service. The solution was provided by a five-year lease of 34 F-16 aircraft, of which 30 will be F-16A/B-15ADF aircraft. The final four aircraft will be earlier block aircraft for spares. All are USAF Excess Defense Articles (EDAs).

The Indonesian Foreign Military Sales program is known as PEACE CAESAR.

Poland

Polish F-16C #4044 with markings of 3rd Tactical Sqd

One of the former members of the Warsaw Pact looking to replace an aging fleet of Soviet-built MiG-23 (withdrawn in service in 1999 due to small number) and MiG-21 and fighters (withdrawn from service on 2003), Poland conducted competition between the Mirage 2000-5 Mk.2, JAS 39 Gripen, MiG-29 (last offer was withdrawn), and the F-16. Despite a strong challenge by the BAe/Saab team, Poland declared its intent to purchase up to 48 F-16C/D-52+ aircraft. These capable aircraft are to be delivered from 2006 to about 2009 under the PEACE SKY program. To avoid confusion with the PZL W-3 Sokół (pl. Falcon) helicopter the jets were named F-16 Jastrząb (Goshawk) in Polish. Now F-16, alongside with 32 MiG-29 fighters and 48 Su-22 ground attack aircraft are the main offensive force of Polish Air Force.

At the beginning of the first decade of the 21st century a call for bids to replace at least a part of the aging fleet of Su-22 ground attack aircraft will be opened, due to logistical reasons the F-16 will be a strong candidate during that procedure.

Portugal

Portugal opted for the F-16 in the 1980s to replace its aging A-7 Corsair II squadrons, which were inappropriate for the air-defense role and were facing many logistical problems (especially since this airplane was no longer in use by the USAF and the U.S. Navy, and was no longer in production, either. The manufacturer of the A-7, Ling-Temco-Vought had gone out of business, too.) The F-16 is operated by the Portuguese Air Force (PoAF).[3][4]

The Portuguese Foreign Military Sales program is known as PEACE ATLANTIS.

As of 2005, the Portuguese air force flies 18 F-16 A/B Block 15 OCU, and eight F-16 AM/BM.

Currently the Portuguese F-16 fleet uses the AN/ALQ-131 ECM pods originally bought for the A-7P Corsair II fleet, and the F-16s will be equipped in the future with the Rafael LITENING II targeting pods.

Peace Atlantis I

In August 1990, the government of then-Prime Minister Cavaco Silva signed a Letter Of Acceptance (LoA) which lead to the creation of the Peace Atlantis I program. The funds used for the purchase were made available through the Foreign Military Sales program, partly a payment for the use by the United States of Lajes Air Base in the archipelago of Azores. Initially the US proposed to supply Portugal with Block 10 Excess defense articles. However the option rested on a first order of 20 new-built F-16 Block 15 OCU (17 A and three B) with Pratt & Whitney F100 engines, which made them almost identical to the US Air National Guard's F-16 ADF. Deliveries of this first order began in February 18 1994, and was completed on July 18 in the same year.

The initial group of Portuguese F-16 pilots was constituted by fighter pilots from the 302 and 304 Squadrons, received training in Tucson, Arizona, between January and June 1994.

During the Kosovo War, it was seen that while the Portuguese F-16 were a relatively recent acquisition, they were no longer at the same level as most modern fighters used by other NATO countries. In 1999, during the Portuguese participation in the conflict (Operation Allied Force), the three F-16 fighters deployed by Portugal were relegated to escort and combat air patrol operations due to the lack of modern armament and targeting systems.

Peace Atlantis II

In 1996, during the government of then-Prime Minister António Guterres, new negotiations took place in regards to the possible purchase of additional of F-16 fighters and the modernization those aircraft. The Pentagon approved of the deal on November 20 1997, and on November 30 1998, Portugal signed the Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LoA) for 25 second-hand F-16 Block 15 (21 A and four B) used by the ANG. Under the program these would be offered by the United States at zero cost and free of charge as Excess Defense Articles under the Southern Regional Amendment to the Arms Export and Control Act, having Portugal be responsible for their transport to Europe and for the modernization costs.

Included in the LoA and in the Peace Atlantis II program was also the purchase of new Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220E engines, 20 upgrade kits, logistics support and training.

Initially the plan consisted in only upgrading the second-hand aircraft of the Peace Atlantis II program and of transferring the F-16's from the Peace Atlantis I to a second squadron with the mission of performing tactical air support actions and tactical air support for maritime operations (TASMO), which wouldn't require the MLU kit.

Of the second-hand F-16 five airframes will be used as spares and only the remaining 20 (16 A and four B) will be upgraded for day & night all-weather operations, by receiving the Falcon UP structural upgrade, the F100-PW-220E engine upgrade and the Mid-Life update (MLU) avionics and cockpit upgrade, to equip the 301 attack squadron, which will replace the last 50 operational A-7 Corsair II in the ground-attack role.

The Mid-Life upgrade (MLU) will be performed in Portugal. In 2001, employees of the LMTAS modified the first two aircraft in a Lead-the-Fleet program, with Portuguese technicians observing. The first F-16 AM was delivered on June 2003, and the PoAF personnel is to perform the modification of the remaining 18 aircraft.

Portuguese Air Force

Turkey

The Turkish Air Force is the world's third largest operator of the F-16, following the USA and Israel. Turkey became one of the nations to indigenously produce the F-16, under a license from Lockheed Martin. Turkey initially received in total 240 F-16s. However, a further 30 were ordered in 2007. All Turkish F-16s are built by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). Each new aircraft had to visit American territory under the terms of the PEACE ONYX Foreign Military Sales program before being turned over to the Turkish Air Force. In 2005, Turkey signed a $1.1 billion avionics upgrade package, based on the USAF's Common Configuration Implementation Program (CCIP). In addition to this, the Turkish Air Force put a firm order for 30 more F-16 Block 50/50+. These too will be manufactured by TAI.[5]

TAI-built F-16s for the Turkish Air Force incorporate indigenous components such as the ASELPOD (similar to Lightning III), ASELSAN-developed AVCI helmet-cueing system, mission computer, Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems, and Self-Protection electronics suites.

Middle East

Bahrain

The small country of Bahrain originally ordered the F-16 in 1987, agreeing to buy eight F-16C and four F-16D under the PEACE CROWN program. These aircraft arrived prior to the first Persian Gulf War. After this, with the increasing military presence of the United States, Bahrain sought further enhancement of its air force and the replacement of its F-5 Tiger II fighters. Initial talks centered on the F-16N being withdrawn from service with the U.S. Navy and U.S.M.C., but ultimately, it was decided to purchase ten new F-16C aircraft. Worthy of note was the unusual clearance for sale of the AIM-120 AMRAAM missile, perhaps allowed due to the fact that the United States 5th Fleet makes its home in Bahrain.

Egypt

Since the historic Camp David accords, Egypt has actively sought to re-equip its military with western weapons. Thus, it has become a large customer for the F-16 Fighting Falcon, which fits well with Egyptian defense needs. No fewer than six separate PEACE VECTOR programs have delivered 42 F-16A/B-15, 40 F-16C/D-32, and 138 F-16C/D-40 fighters to the Egyptian Air Force by 2002.[6]

Israel

The Israeli Air Force is one of the largest F-16 operators in the world (Second only to the USAF). The Israeli Air Force achieved the first shot downs for the entire F-16 series, shooting down a Syrian Mi-8 helicopter and a MiG-21 jet in 1982.

Israel took advantage of the Iranian F-16 deal's falling through to gain an early spot in the orders for the new jet. As early as 1978, Israel had announced plans to buy 75 of the aircraft, and the FMS program PEACE MARBLE I delivered these 75 F-16A/B aircraft. A follow-on order for the F-16C/D block 30 doubled Israel's Falcon fleet, and this was further enhanced by PEACE MARBLE III, delivering 30 F-16C block 40 and 30 F-16D block 40 aircraft from 1991 to 1993. In part to reward Israel for moderation shown during the Gulf War, a shipment of 50 F-16A/B Excess Defense Articles delivered in 1994. Israel has not finished adding F-16s to the Israel Defense Force Air Force. In a deal worth $4.5 billion, Israel ordered a total of 102 F-16D block 52+, designated the F-16I or "Sufa" (Storm) in Hebrew. The first deliveries began in 2004, and will continue through 2009. Has 345 F-16s in service as on 2008.[1]

Jordan

Like Egypt, Jordan opened the door to modern American arms sales by reaching a peace agreement with Israel, this one in 1994. Jordan then arranged for a lease of air defense F-16s from the United States, and to transfer ownership eventually. The program was successful, providing Jordan with 16 F-16A/B-15ADF fighters in 1997 and 1998. A second PEACE FALCON program delivered a further 17 aircraft of similar type. All of these aircraft are refurbished Excess Defense Articles. In 2005, Jordan purchased three former RNLAF F-16s. Later the Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF) pursued more second hand purchases in 2006/2007 from Belgium and the Netherlands, the purchase totaled 22 aircraft, putting the RJAF in a good position with 58 F-16s.

Oman

In May 2002, the Sultanate of Oman signed an agreement with the U.S. government to purchase 12 Advanced Block 50 F-16s in the PEACE A'SAMA A'SAFIYA ("Clear Skies") Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. The agreement includes eight single-seat F-16Cs and four two-seat F-16Ds,[2]

United Arab Emirates

It was surprising to some to find the F-16 the winner of the UAE's high-end fighter competition, besting both the Dassault Rafale and F-15 Eagle. The key was a highly advanced configuration that became the F-16E/F-60, with the UAE as its first customer. A total of 80 of the aircraft were ordered.

Asia

Indonesia

A small operator of the F-16, Indonesia has only received a single allotment of 12 F-16A/B-15OCU aircraft. Two F-16As were lost in two different accidents and thus has shrunk the number of F-16s to 6 F-16A-15OCU and 4 F-16B-15OCU, totaling in only 10 F-16A/B-15OCU aircraft in service.[7] A purchase of nine more aircraft was cancelled in favor of 12 Su-30KI and 8 MI-17, some sources state 24 Su-30KI. This order was also cancelled due to the Asian Financial Crisis.[8][9] The Indonesian Air Force are planning to standardize their existing F-16A/B-15OCU to F-16C/D variants by the end of 2009 and there is an option of purchasing new F-16C/Ds to replace their retired, but in reserve, F-5E Tiger 2s.[10] From 2000 to 2005 the US imposed an arms embargo on Indonesia which resulted in the F-16 squadron being grounded due to a lack of spare parts. The Indonesian Air Force is seeking approval to purchase 6 new F-16 C/D variants to strengthen their F-16 squadron.[11]. The Indonesian Foreign Military Sales program is known as PEACE BIMA-SENA.

Pakistan

Pakistan was an early customer for F-16s, seeking to counter their rival India's purchases of Soviet aircraft. The United States obliged by selling increasingly large lots of F-16A/B fighters to Pakistan. An initial order for 40 aircraft was delivered in two installments, and led to a further order for 71 more F-16A/B-15OCU aircraft. Due to political developments relating to Pakistan's nuclear program, these aircraft were embargoed before delivery. 28 aircraft remained in storage while other buyers were sought, but ultimately it was decided that the aircraft would be put into service with the US Air Force and Navy as aggressor aircraft. The remaining aircraft on order had work stopped before completion.

The Pakistani Foreign Military Sales program is known as PEACE GATE.

In November 2006, the Pakistan Air Force signed a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) for 18 new-built F-16C/D Block 52+, 28 F-16A/B Block 15 and 60 Mid-Life-Update M3 Tape modules/kits as part of a $5.1bn deal including fighter aircraft, their related infrastructure, training and ammunition. Deliveries of the F-16A/Bs are expected to begin in 2007, while the initial F-16C/Ds will likely be received sometime in late 2008 or early 2009. The current procurement program of new-built aircraft as well as refurbishment and upgrade of 60 used and serving aircraft is expected to be complete by 2010-2012, as per the Pakistan Air Force Air Chief Marshal Tanvir Mahmood Ahmed. In April 2006, Janes Defence Weekly reported that the PAF may procure an additional 18 Block 52+ from the current deal. In July 2007, Commander of Central Command Air Forces, Lieutenant General Gary L. North (U.S. Air Force), and another U.S. aviator flew a pair of F-16s to Pakistan for Pakistan Air Force.[12]

Singapore

Singapore began as a small F-16 user, but has a steadily growing fleet. It has operated the aircraft since 1988, when the first of its initial order for 8 F-16A/B-15OCU arrived. Since then, it has begun ordering multiple installments of F-16C/D-52 aircraft, totalling 76 of the advanced fighters.

The Singapore Foreign Military Sales program is known as PEACE CARVIN.

South Korea

Facing a desperate need for advanced aircraft to counter North Korea's numerical superiority, South Korea was quick to order the F-16 to meet its needs with a 1981 order for 36 F-16C/D aircraft, making it the first operator for the C/D model outside of the United States. A more ambitious program(Korean Fighter Program) to provide 120 new fighters was initially lost to the F/A-18 Hornet, but various difficulties led to the order going to the F-16C/D Block 52D((KF-16C/D), 72 of which were to be manufactured in South Korea, and 28 of which were to be produced in Fort Worth, U.S.A.. In 2000, a further 20 Korean-built F-16s were added.[13]

The South Korean Foreign Military Sales program is known as PEACE BRIDGE.

Taiwan

Taiwan is a major F-16 customer, although it has placed only a single order for the aircraft. In 1992, 150 F-16A/B-20 aircraft were ordered while at the same time Taiwan ordered 60 Dassault Mirage 2000 and launched its own indigenous fighter program, the AIDC Ching-Kuo. Delivery of all F-16s was completed in 2001.

The Taiwanese Foreign Military Sales program is known as PEACE FENGHUANG.

The Republic of China (Taiwan)'s Air Force (ROCAF), needing a next generation fighter to replace its fleet of F-16 A/B Block 20s, has expressed interest in the new F-35 Lightning II. However, due to political issues, it is unlikely the island nation will be able to acquire such an advanced fighter in the near future. As a result, the ROCAF has opted for up to 66 new F-16C/D Block50/52 as its interim replacement fighter.[14] As with all military purchases, Beijing has expressed opposition to the sale.

Thailand

Initially considered a candidate to purchase the F-16/79, Thailand's first order was ultimately for 12 F-16A/B-15OCU fighters, immediately bolstered by a further 6 F-16A-15OCU planes. 18 more aircraft were received in 1995, the last new-production block 15 aircraft built. An attempt to buy F/A-18 Hornets failed, and in place of them, the US offered to sell USAF F-16ADFs Excess Defense Articles. A total of 18 examples were bought. In early 2005, the Royal Thai Air Force received 3 F-16A-15OCU and 4 F-16B-15OCU from the Republic of Singapore Air Force.

The Thai Foreign Military Sales program is known as PEACE NARESUAN.

Latin America and Africa

Chile

Chile selected the F-16 as the winner of a long-running competition to provide the nation's next generation of fighter aircraft in 2000. The F-16 competed successfully against the JAS 39 Gripen, the Dassault Mirage 2000, the F-18 Hornet, and the Dassault Rafale. Currently Chile is slated to receive the first of its ten F-16C/D Block 50 aircraft in 2006. The deal for six C and four D model aircraft was valued at $600 million in 2002 and will be conducted under the program name PEACE PUMA. There are plans to buy around 18 more used F-16A/B MLU from Netherlands.[15]

Venezuela

The first – and for a long time the only – Latin American user of the F-16, Venezuela ordered a total of 24 F-16A/B Block 15 aircraft in May 1982 under the PEACE DELTA program; the U.S. government originally offered the F-16/J79 version, but eventually authorized sale of the standard Block 15 version.[16] Deliveries of 18 ‘A’ models and 6 ‘B’ models began in September 1983 and were completed in 1985. Since entering operational service in 1984, these fighters have served with 161st and 162nd Fighter Squadron of Fighter Air Group 16 at El Libertador Airbase, Palo Negro. The Venezuelan Air Force had wanted to order a further batch of 24 aircraft, but was unable to afford the purchase.[17]

Venezuela has been seeking two attrition replacements for lost F-16s since late 1997,[18] but has not been able to obtain them due to financial problems and souring relations between the United States and the government of President Hugo Chávez. On 15 May 2006, the U.S. government announced that it would enact a ban on arms sales to Venezuela to become effective at the beginning of October of that year. This embargo was expected to soon render Venezuela’s F-16 fleet non-operational, and General Alberto Muller, a military advisor to President Chávez, responded to the embargo announcement with a threat to sell Venezuela’s remaining 21 F-16s to Iran.[19] Subsequently, the Chávez government decided to pursue replacement of its American-sourced military aircraft inventory with Russian aircraft, and in mid-June 2006 it was revealed that Venezuela had recently ordered several Sukhoi Su-30s.[20]

Venezuela’s F-16s have been modified to use the Israeli Python IV IR-guided air-to-air missile.[21]

Template:Standard table ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Operating Units ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Model ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Location |- ! style="align: left; background: lavender;" colspan="2" | 16º Grupo Aéreo de Caza "Dragones" || style="align: left; background: lavender" | El Libertador Airbase, Palo Negro |----- | Escuadrón de Caza 161 "Caribes" || F-16A/B Block 15 || El Libertador Airbase, Palo Negro |----- | Escuadrón de Caza 162 "Gavilanes" || F-16A/B Block 15 || El Libertador Airbase, Palo Negro |- |}

Potential operators

Below are listed active proposals for acquisition of F-16s.

Brazil

As of 2009[citation needed], the "F-16BR" was declassified in the FX-2 Program by Brazilian Air Force.[citation needed]. Brasil was evaluating this aircraft with the intent to manufacture in a joint-venture with Lockheed Martin.

Croatia

As of 2009[citation needed], Croatia plans to replace its Mikoyan MiG-21 fleet. Croatia is to purchase 12 or more modern multi-role fighters by 2011. The most-likely candidates are JAS 39 Gripen or F-16C/D.[22]

India

India has requested proposals for the Indian MRCA Competition, of which, the proposed Lockheed Martin F-16IN design is a candidate.

Iraq

As of 2009, The Iraqi Government is looking to buy 36 F-16s of an unknown model for its air force.[citation needed]

Morocco

The Bush administration announced plans to sell Morocco 24 F-16C/D fighters and 24 T-6B trainers aircraft valued at up to $2.6 billion on 27 December 2007.[23] The sale was officially announced on 6 June 2008.[24]

Romania

As of 2009, Romania plans to replace its Mikoyan MiG-21 LanceR fleet. A total of 48 modern multi-role fighters will be needed for the Romanian Air Force. The most-likely candidates are Saab 39 Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale or F-16 Fighting Falcon. A decision will be made in 2009, with the first multi-role fighters to arrive in early 2012.

Cancelled orders

Iran

Iran placed an order for approximately 300 aircraft, but due to overthrow of the shah, the order was cancelled.[citation needed]

Summaries of F-16 deliveries

Foreign sales programs by codename

While USAF and EPAF customers account for the majority of F-16 sales, the F-16 has also been sold to many other customers under an agreement known as a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.

Since the DoD assigns two-word codenames to programs such as these, FMS programs are assigned two-word codenames beginning with the word PEACE, indicating oversight by USAF Headquarters. The second word in these FMS sales is often chosen to reflect some facet of the customer, such as MARBLE for Israel or ONYX for Turkey. DoD codenames appear in all capital letters.

The codename is assigned beginning with the first FMS sale, and Roman numerals are appended to distinguish follow-on buys, the original FMS buy denoted with the Roman numeral 'I'.

Note that the sale of the F-16E and F-16F Block 60 models to the UAE was not assigned a codename, because it was not sold under an FMS agreement.

Template:Standard table ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Program Codename ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Customer ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Deliveries ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Aircraft Acquired ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Notes |- |----- | Peace A'sama A'safiya | Oman | 2005–2006 | (12) 8 F-16C-50 (Adv.), 4 F-16D-50 (Adv.) | “A'sama A'safiya” means “Clear Skies”. |----- | Peace Atlantis I | Portugal | 1994 | (20) 17 F-16A-15OCU, 3 F-16B-15OCU | |----- | Peace Atlantis II | Portugal | 1999 | (25) 21 F-16A-15, 4 F-16B-15 | USAF EDAs, 5 F-16As broken down for spares; received MLU [citation needed] |----- | Peace Bima-Sena | Indonesia | 1989–1990 | (12) 8 F-16A-15OCU, 4 F-16B-15OCU | Additional order for 9 aircraft was cancelled. |----- | Peace Bridge I | South Korea | 1986–1992 | (40) 30 F-16C-32, 10 F-16D-32 | |----- | Peace Bridge II | South Korea | 1994–2000 | (120) 80 F-16C-52, 40 F-16D-52 | Licensed production, Korea Fighter Program (KFP). |----- | Peace Bridge III | South Korea | 2003–2004 | (20) 14 F-16C-52, 6 F-16D-52 | Licensed production, Korea Fighter Program (KFP). |----- | Peace Carvin I | Singapore | 1988 | (8) 4 F-16A-15OCU, 4 F-16B-15OCU | |----- | Peace Carvin II | Singapore | 1998 | (18) 8 F-16C-52, 10 F-16D-52 | |----- | Peace Carvin III | Singapore | 2000–2002 | (12) 10 F-16C-52, 2 F-16D-52 | |----- | Peace Carvin IV | Singapore | 2003–2004 | (20) 20 F-16D-52 | |----- | Peace Caesar | Italy | 2003–2004 | (34) 26 F-16A-15ADF, 4 F-16B-15ADF, 4 F-16A/B-5/10 | 10-year lease program of surplus USAF aircraft. |----- | Peace Crown I | Bahrain | 1990 | (12) 8 F-16C-40, 4 F-16D-40 | |----- | Peace Crown II | Bahrain | 2000 | (10) 10 F-16C-40 | |----- | Peace Delta | Venezuela | 1982–1984 | (24) 18 F-16A-15, 6 F-16B-15 | |----- | Peace Falcon I | Jordan | 1997–1998 | (16) 12 F-16A-15ADF, 4 F-16B-15ADF | USAF EDAs |----- | Peace Falcon II | Jordan | 2003 | (17) 12 [7+9?] F-16A-15ADF, 5 [1?] F-16B-15ADF | USAF EDAs |----- | Peace Fenghuang | Taiwan | 1997–2001 | (150) 120 F-16A-20, 30 F-16B-20 | |----- | Peace Gate I | Pakistan | 1983 | (6) 2 F-16A-15, 4 F-16B-15 | |----- | Peace Gate II | Pakistan | 1983–1987 | (34) 26 F-16A-15, 8 F-16B-15 | |----- | Peace Gate III | Pakistan | Embargoed | (11) 6 F-16A-15OCU, 5 F-16B-15OCU | |----- | Peace Gate IV | Pakistan | Embargoed | (60) 48 F-16A-15OCU, 12 F-16B-15OCU | |----- | Peace Gate V | Pakistan | 1983–1987 | (34) 26 F-16A-15, 8 F-16B-15 | |----- | Peace Marble I | Israel | 1980–1981 | (75) 18 F-16A-5, 8 F-16B-5, 40 F-16A-10, 9 F-16A-15 | |----- | Peace Marble II | Israel | 1986–1988 | (75) 51 F-16C-30, 24 F-16D-30 | |----- | Peace Marble III | Israel | 1991–1993 | (60) 30 F-16C-30, 30 F-16D-30 | |----- | Peace Marble IV | Israel | 1994 | (40) 3 F-16A-1, 2 F-16B-1, 1 F-16A-5, 7 F-16B-5, 32 F-16A-10, 5 F-16B-10 | |----- | Peace Marble V | Israel | 2004–2009 | (102) 102 F-16D-52 | |----- | Peace Naresuan I | Thailand | 1988 | (12) 8 F-16A-15OCU, 4 F-16B-15OCU | |----- | Peace Naresuan II | Thailand | 1990–1991 | (6) 6 F-16A-15OCU | |----- | Peace Naresuan III | Thailand | 1995–1996 | (18) 12 F-16A-15OCU, 6 F-16B-15OCU | |----- | Peace Naresuan IV | Thailand | 2002–2003 | (18) 15 F-16A-15ADF, 1 F-16B-15ADF, 2 F-16A-10OCU | |----- | Peace Onyx I | Turkey | 1987–1995 | (160) 34 F-16C-30, 9 F-16D-30, 102 F-16C-40, 15 F-16D-40 | |----- | Peace Onyx II | Turkey | 1996–1997 | (40) 34 F-16C-50, 6 F-16D-50 | |----- | Peace Onyx III | Turkey | 1998–1999 | (40) 26 F-16C-50, 14 F-16D-50 |----- | Peace Onyx IV | Turkey | 2010–2011 | (30) 16 F16-C-50+ , 14 F16-D-50+ |----- | Peace Sky | Poland | 2006–2009 | (48) 36 F-16C-52, 12 F-16D-52 | |----- | Peace Vector I | Egypt | 1982–1985 | (42) 34 F-16A-15, 8 F-16B-15 | |----- | Peace Vector II | Egypt | 1986–1988 | (40) 34 F-16C-32, 6 F-16D-32 | |----- | Peace Vector III | Egypt | 1991–1995 | (47) 35 F-16C-40, 12 F-16D-40 | |----- | Peace Vector IV | Egypt | 1994–1995 | (46) 34 F-16C-40, 12 F-16D-40 | |----- | Peace Vector V | Egypt | 1999–2000 | (21) 21 F-16C-40 | |----- | Peace Vector VI | Egypt | 2001–2002 | (24) 12 F-16C-40, 12 F-16D-40 | |----- | Peace Xenia I | Greece | 1989–1990 | (40) 34 F-16C-30, 6 F-16D-30 | |----- | Peace Xenia II | Greece | 1997–1998 | (40) 32 F-16C-50, 8 F-16D-50 | |----- | Peace Xenia III | Greece | 2002–2004 | (60) 40 F-16C-52, 20 F-16D-52 | |----- | Peace Xenia IV | Greece | 2009–2010 | (30) 20 F-16C-52, 10 F-16D-52 | |}

F-16 deliveries by block and customer

Template:Standard table ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Model ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Customer ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Deliveries ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Aircraft Acquired ! style="text-align: center; background: lightsteelblue;"|Notes |- |----- | F-16A-1 || USAF || 1978–1979 || 21 || |----- | F-16A-1 || Belgium || 1979–1980 || 17 || |----- | F-16A-1 || Netherlands || 1979–1980 || 12 || |----- | F-16A-1 || Denmark || 1980–1983 || 3 || |----- | F-16A-1 || Norway || 1980 || 3 || |----- | F-16A-1 || Israel || 1994 || 3 || USAF EDAs |----- | F-16A-5 || USAF || 1979–1980 || 46 || |----- | F-16A-5 || Belgium || 1980–1981 || 8 || |----- | F-16A-5 || Netherlands || 1980–1981 || 14 || |----- | F-16A-5 || Denmark || 1980–1981 || 12 || |----- | F-16A-5 || Norway || 1980–1981 || 10 || |----- | F-16A-5 || Israel || 1980–1994 || 19 || 1 USAF EDA |----- | F-16A-10 || USAF || 1980–1981 || 188 || |----- | F-16A-10 || Israel || 1980–1994 || 72 || 32 USAF EDAs |----- | F-16A-10 || Belgium || 1981–1982 || 30 || |----- | F-16A-10 || Netherlands || 1981–1982 || 20 || |----- | F-16A-10 || Denmark || 1981–1982 || 15 || |----- | F-16A-10 || Norway || 1981–1982 || 15 || |----- | F-16A-10 || Italy || 2003–2004 || 4 || USAF EDA |----- | F-16A-10OCU || Thailand || 2002 || 2 || USAF EDA--stored for spares |----- | F-16A-15 || Israel || 1980–1981 || 9 || |----- | F-16A-15 || USAF || 1981–1985 || 409 || |----- | F-16A-15 || Egypt || 1982–1985 || 34 || |----- | F-16A-15 || Netherlands || 1982–1987 || 84 || |----- | F-16A-15 || Norway || 1982–1984 || 32 || |----- | F-16A-15 || Venezuela || 1982–1984 || 18 || |----- | F-16A-15 || Belgium || 1983–1985 || 41 || |----- | F-16A-15 || Denmark || 1983–1997 || 30 || 6 USAF EDAs |----- | F-16A-15 || Pakistan || 1983–1987 || 28 || |----- | F-16A-15 || NASA || 1991 || 1 || USAF EDA |----- | F-16A-15 || Portugal || 1999 || 21 || USAF EDAs |----- | F-16A-15ADF || USAF || 1989–1992 || 226 || Conversions of F-16A-15 |----- | F-16A-15ADF || Jordan || 1997–2003 || 24 || USAF EDAs |----- | F-16A-15ADF || Thailand || 2002–2003 || 15 || USAF EDAs |----- | F-16A-15ADF || Italy || 2003–2004 || 26 || USAF EDAs |----- | F-16A-15OCU || Netherlands || 1987–1992 || 47 || |----- | F-16A-15OCU || Belgium || 1988–1991 || 40 || |----- | F-16A-15OCU || Singapore || 1988 || 4 || |----- | F-16A-15OCU || Thailand || 1988–1996 || 26 || |----- | F-16A-15OCU || Indonesia || 1989–1990 || 8 || |----- | F-16A-15OCU || Pakistan || Embargoed || 13 || Delivered to USAF and USN |----- | F-16A-15OCU || Portugal || 1994 || 17 || |----- | F-16A-15OCU || USAF || 2003 || 5 || Embargoed Pakistani aircraft |----- | F-16A-15OCU || USN || 2003 || 8 || Embargoed Pakistani aircraft |----- | F-16A-20 || Taiwan || 1997–2001 || 120 || |----- | F-16A-FSD || USAF || 1976–1978 || 6 || Full-scale development aircraft |----- | F-16 AFTI || NASA || 1980–2001 || 1 || |----- | F-16B-1 || USAF || 1978–1979 || 22 || |----- | F-16B-1 || Belgium || 1979–1980 || 6 || |----- | F-16B-1 || Netherlands || 1979–1980 || 6 || |----- | F-16B-1 || Denmark || 1980 || 2 || |----- | F-16B-1 || Norway || 1980 || 2 || |----- | F-16B-1 || Israel || 1994 || 2 || USAF EDAs |----- | F-16B-5 || USAF || 1979–1980 || 27 || |----- | F-16B-5 || Belgium || 1980–1981 || 4 || |----- | F-16B-5 || Netherlands || 1980–1981 || 2 || |----- | F-16B-5 || Norway || 1980–1981 || 2 || |----- | F-16B-5 || Denmark || 1981 || 3 || |----- | F-16B-5 || Israel || 1994 || 15 || 7 USAF EDAs |----- | F-16B-10 || USAF || 1980–1981 || 25 || |----- | F-16B-10 || Belgium || 1981–1982 || 2 || |----- | F-16B-10 || Denmark || 1981–1997 || 4 || 1 USAF EDA |----- | F-16B-10 || Netherlands || 1981–1982 || 20 || |----- | F-16B-10 || Norway || 1981–1982 || 3 || |----- | F-16B-10 || Israel || 1994 || 5 || USAF EDAs |----- | F-16B-15 || USAF || 1981–1985 || 48 || |----- | F-16B-15 || Belgium || 1982–1983 || 8 || |----- | F-16B-15 || Egypt || 1982–1985 || 8 || |----- | F-16B-15 || Netherlands || 1982–1987 || 18 || |----- | F-16B-15 || Norway || 1982–1983 || 5 || |----- | F-16B-15 || Venezuela || 1982–1984 || 6 || |----- | F-16B-15 || Denmark || 1983 || 8 || |----- | F-16B-15 || Pakistan || 1983–1987 || 12 || |----- | F-16B-15 || Portugal || 1999 || 4 || USAF EDAs |----- | F-16B-15ADF || USAF || 1989–1992 || 25 || Conversions of F-16B-15 |----- | F-16B-15ADF || Jordan || 1997–2003 || 9 || USAF EDAs |----- | F-16B-15ADF || Thailand || 2002 || 1 || USAF EDAs |----- | F-16B-15ADF || Italy || 2003–2004 || 4 || USAF EDAs |----- | F-16B-15OCU || Netherlands || 1988–1989 || 5 || |----- | F-16B-15OCU || Singapore || 1988 || 4 || |----- | F-16B-15OCU || Thailand || 1988–1995 || 10 || |----- | F-16B-15OCU || Belgium || 1989–1990 || 4 || |----- | F-16B-15OCU || Indonesia || 1989–1990 || 4 || |----- | F-16B-15OCU || Norway || 1989 || 2 || |----- | F-16B-15OCU || Pakistan || Embargoed || 15 || Delivered to USAF and USN |----- | F-16B-15OCU || Portugal || 1994 || 3 || |----- | F-16B-15OCU || USAF || 2003 || 9 || Embargoed Pakistani aircraft |----- | F-16B-15OCU || USN || 2003 || 6 || Embargoed Pakistani aircraft |----- | F-16B-20 || Taiwan || 1997–2001 || 30 || |----- | F-16B-FSD || USAF || 1977–1978 || 2 || Full-scale development aircraft |----- | F-16C-25 || USAF || 1984–1986 || 209 || |----- | F-16C-30 || USAF || 1986–1989 || 359 || |----- | F-16C-30 || Israel || 1986–1987 || 51 || |----- | F-16C-30 || Turkey || 1987–1990 || 34 || |----- | F-16C-30 || Greece || 1989–1990 || 34 || |----- | F-16C-32 || Egypt || 1986–1988 || 34 || |----- | F-16C-32 || South Korea || 1986–1992 || 30 || |----- | F-16C-32 || USAF || 1987–1989 || 57 || |----- | F-16C-40 || USAF || 1988–1992 || 232 || |----- | F-16C-40 || Bahrain || 1990–2000 || 18 || |----- | F-16C-40 || Turkey || 1990–1995 || 102 || |----- | F-16C-40 || Egypt || 1991–2002 || 102 || |----- | F-16C-40 || Israel || 1991–1993 || 30 || |----- | F-16C-42 || USAF || 1989–1992 || 152 || |----- | F-16C-50 || USAF || 1991–2004 || 186 || |----- | F-16C-50 || Turkey || 1996–1999 || 50 || |----- | F-16C-50 || Greece || 1997–1998 || 32 || |----- | F-16C-50 || Oman || 2005–2006 || 8 || |----- | F-16C-50 || Chile || 2006 || 6 || |----- | F-16C-52 || USAF || 1992–1996 || 41 || |----- | F-16C-52 || South Korea || 1994–2004 || 94 || Korean Fighter Program, licensed production |----- | F-16C-52 || Singapore || 1998–2002 || 26 || |----- | F-16C-52 || Greece || 2002–2004 || 40 || |----- | F-16C-52 || Poland || 2006–2009 || 36 || On order |----- | F-16C-52 || Greece || 2009–2010 || 20 || On order |----- | F-16D-25 || USAF || 1984–1986 || 35 || |----- | F-16D-30 || USAF || 1986–1989 || 48 || |----- | F-16D-30 || Israel || 1987–1988 || 24 || |----- | F-16D-30 || Turkey || 1987–1989 || 9 || |----- | F-16D-30 || Greece || 1997–1998 || 8 || |----- | F-16D-32 || Egypt || 1986–1987 || 6 || |----- | F-16D-32 || South Korea || 1986–1992 || 10 || |----- | F-16D-32 || USAF || 1987–1989 || 5 || |----- | F-16D-40 || USAF || 1989–1992 || 34 || |----- | F-16D-40 || Bahrain || 1990 || 4 || |----- | F-16D-40 || Turkey || 1990–1994 || 15 || |----- | F-16D-40 || Egypt || 1991–2002 || 36 || |----- | F-16D-40 || Israel || 1991–1993 || 30 || |----- | F-16D-42 || USAF || 1989–1992 || 54 || |----- | F-16D-50 || USAF || 1992–1994 || 28 || |----- | F-16D-50 || Turkey || 1996–1999 || 20 || |----- | F-16D-50 || Greece || 1997–1998 || 32 || |----- | F-16D-50 || Oman || 2005–2006 || 4 || |----- | F-16D-50 || Chile || 2006 || 4 || |----- | F-16D-52 || USAF || 1992–1994 || 12 || |----- | F-16D-52 || South Korea || 1994–2004 || 46 || Korean Fighter Program, licensed production |----- | F-16D-52 || Singapore || 1998–2004 || 36 || |----- | F-16D-52 || Greece || 2002–2004 || 20 || |----- | F-16D-52 || Israel || 2004–2009 || 102 || |----- | F-16D-52 || Poland || 2006–2009 || 12 || On order |----- | F-16D-52 || Greece || 2009–2010 || 10 || On order |----- | F-16E-60 || UAE || 2004–2006 || 55 || |----- | F-16F-60 || UAE || 2003–2006 || 25 || |----- | F-16N-30 || USN || 1987–1988 || 22 || |----- | F-16XL/A || NASA || 1998–1999 || 1 || |----- | F-16XL/B || NASA || 1998–1999 || 1 || |----- | TF-16N-30 || USN || 1987–1988 || 4 || |----- | YF-16A || USAF || 1974 || 2 || Prototypes |}

References

  1. ^ Air Forces Monthly, December 2007 issue, p. 43-44.
  2. ^ F-16 Users: US Navy, F-16.net. Retrieved: 10 March 2008.
  3. ^ F-16 in Portugal, article about the F-16 service in the Portuguese Air Force and the country's upgrade program.
  4. ^ F-16 Air Forces - Portugal
  5. ^ F-16 Users: Turkey. F-16.net. Retrieved: 2 February 2008.
  6. ^ F-16 users
  7. ^ Scramble Magazine. "Indonesian Air Arms Overview"
  8. ^ MILAVIA - Sukhoi Su-27 'Flanker' - Operator List
  9. ^ F-16 Air Forces - Indonesia
  10. ^ News
  11. ^ MilAvia Press.com
  12. ^ F-16 Fighting Falcon
  13. ^ F-16 Air Forces - South Korea
  14. ^ ROC Requested Fighters
  15. ^ Chile, Chilean Air Force, F-16.net
  16. ^ Anon. (undated). “Venezuela”. F-16.net. Retrieved 16 June 2008.
  17. ^ Anon. (updated January 2006). Military Force Structures of the World – “Venezuela”. Forecast International.
  18. ^ Anon. (5 November 1997). “Venezuela looking to buy Lockheed Martin F-16s”. Aerospace Daily. Retrieved 16 June 2008.
  19. ^ Sanchez, Fabiola (16 May 2006). “Venezuela Weighs Selling U.S. Jets to Iran”. Washington Post. Retrieved 16 June 2008.
  20. ^ Anon. (15 June 2006). “Venezuela to get Russian aircraft”. BBC. Retrieved 16 June 2008.
  21. ^ Jane’s All the World’s Aircraft (21 November 2007). “Lockheed Martin (General Dynamics) F-16 Fighting Falcon”. Jane’s Publishing.
  22. ^ "Croatian Air Force". aeroflight.co.uk. Archived from the original on 2007-06-29.
  23. ^ Warwick, Graham. "USA details possible $2.6 billion deal with Moroccan air force", Flight International, 27 December 2007.
  24. ^ "Morocco Orders 24 F-16s", Defense News, 6 June 2008.

See also

  • F-16.net F-16 air forces, operators, and potential customers
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