The Lending Act was successfully passed in both houses of the US Parliament and was signed by US President Joe Biden. The Ukrainian Air Force will soon be able to use the most modern American aircraft. In particular, the multi-role fighter F-16.

The F-16 is a fourth-generation light multi-role fighter aircraft from the United States. Despite its respectable age, the F-16 still remains the foundation of many countries’ air forces since it was created 48 years ago. Especially, thanks to its constant upgrades.

Why is the F-16 a good option for Ukraine?

Why an F-16 fighter might be the best option for Ukraine It is easy to maintain and inexpensive. Especially when compared to the most powerful US aircraft, the F-15E Strike Eagle. For example, the cost of one flight hour of modern versions of the F-16 and F15E is 8000-15000 and 27000 dollars, respectively.

The reason is quite simple. The F-16 has a simpler “stuffing” and only one engine, since from the very beginning it was designed not only for the US Air Force, but also for various American allies. The F-16 can perform almost any mission in the air: from air warfare to high-precision bombing.

American F-16 fighters: characteristics

The F-16 can be called a very interesting aircraft, because today there are only 10 of its main types and a large number of localized versions. The oldest model is the F-16A / B (single and double). It was created in the early 80’s. Then began the release of the version of the F-16C / D, whose generation spans decades (from the late 80s to 2000).

The most modern model is considered to be released in 2010. This is the F-16V. Also, each version is divided into separate units, where the aircraft can differ in engine, equipment or avionics. The US Air Force currently has 882 F-16C/D units in all possible units.

Due to the large number of versions, it is difficult to understand which F-16 aircraft can be transferred to Ukraine. One can only hope that these will be the latest F-16V Block 70/72. If yes, what are they? Characteristics of F-16 fighters great:

• Length: 15 meters;
• Height: 5 meters;
• Crew: 1 person;
• Maximum speed: 2+ Max;
• wingspan: 9.5 meters;
• Traction equipment: 1.1;
• Maximum take-off weight: 21.7 tons;
• Suspension points: can be up to 13;
• Weight: 9.2 thousand kg

Speaking of the capabilities of the F-16V Block 70/72, it is worth noting that the aircraft combines an advanced radar Active Electronic Scanning Array with a new avionics architecture and some structural updates. They have extended the life of the fighter by 50% compared to the old models.

The F-16V Block 70/72 is also equipped with the latest software, including an advanced advanced data channel, weapons and targeting. The latest F-16 also features an automatic collision avoidance system and more accurate GPS navigation. Thanks to the AESA APG-83 radar, the aircraft can “see” the target at a distance of more than 370 km.

Unfortunately, the F-16V Block 70/72 also has its drawbacks. For example, due to its light weight, the flight range of the fighter aircraft is quite short. Therefore, you must constantly use additional suspension tanks.

The cost of the F-16

The exact cost of the F-16 is difficult to say, especially given the large number of versions of these fighters. But it can range from $43 million to $55 million. Source