©©Cem DOĞUT

The F-16’s Evolution from a Lightweight Day Fighter to a Deep Strike Aircraft In 1968, the United States Thus, it could easily change Indo-Pakistan conflicts, started a new aircraft its speed, altitude, and the USAF requested a fast project following the direction. Also, it would be and high maneuverable by Cem DOĞUT development of the high- difficult to detect the light aircraft that weighs 20 pylons was increased performance interceptor and, therefore, the small tons and is optimized for from two to three. The Mig-25 by the Soviet plane. It would also be combat at Mach 0.6 - 1.6 radar requirements were Union. The requirements cheap to manufacture and at an altitude of 30,000 - also changed, and the of the F-X project were operate. Later, Boyd and 40,000 feet. In May 1972, Westinghouse APG-66 40,000 lb. MTOW, a his team received funding the proposals of General multi-mode mission radar maximum speed of 2.5 from Northrop and General Dynamics and Northrop was selected. Mach, and a high thrust- Dynamics to develop these were selected, and the YF- to-weight ratio. In 1969, concepts. The Air Force did 16 and YF-17 prototypes On June 13, 1975, the U.S. McDonnell-Douglas's F-15 not support these efforts, were manufactured. The Air Force announced that was selected, leading the as it would undermine prototypes made their it had chosen the YF-16. In way to the birth of the the F-15 (Project F-X). maiden flights on February this choice, the P&W F100 fighter that would replace Finally, they realized that 2, 1974, and June 9, 1974, turbofan engines used in the F-4 Phantom II. It the budget would not be respectively. That same the F-15 aircraft played a carried a powerful radar enough to get enough year, NATO members significant role as much (APG-63) and plenty of F-15s and then the Fighter , Denmark, the as the YF-16's superior missiles (4 AIM-7 and 4 Mafia's ideas started to be Netherlands, and Norway acceleration, climbing, AIM-9) to deal with the valued. The Advanced Day wanted to replace their and maneuverability to the Mig-25. As the F-X project Fighter concept emerged F-104Gs. The winner of YF-17. This selection also continued, the challenges and was named the F-XX the LWF project would reduced engine unit costs of equipping the Air Force project. With the support also have the opportunity and operating costs. with such a capable and of the Department of to be sold to these expensive aircraft began Defense, the Air Force countries when the U.S. In the 1970s, the Fighter to arise. The team that led Prototype Study Group Air Force's desire to Mafia's ideas became a the debate was nicknamed was established in replace its F-4 and F-105 reality thanks to engineers the "Fighter Mafia" at the May 1971. Two of the six aircraft, combined with in Fort Worth, Texas. The time. The core staff of this candidates were selected, these countries' need for resulting lightweight team was Colonel John and the Lightweight a new fighter-bomber, the fighter incorporated Boyd, Colonel Everest Fighter (LWF) project was LWF project turned into various advanced Riccioni, Analyst Pierre initiated. The request for the Air Combat Fighter technologies that were Spray, and Engineer Harry proposal was published (ACF). The YF-16 aircraft not previously used in Hillaker. The Fighter Mafia on June 6, 1972. In light had also evolved into a operational aircraft. A believed that the ideal of the lessons learned multi-role fighter from LERX (leading-edge root fighter should be light from the Vietnam War, a day fighter, and the extension), which is a small and highly maneuverable. the Six-day War, and the number of its underwing extension to an aircraft

78 wing surface, was added the development of the ©© LM forward of the leading aircraft over time by taking edge to improve the a look at the notable airflow at high angles of blocks of the F-16. attack and low airspeeds. Additionally, the aircraft's F-16A/B Block 1, response time was 5 and 10 reduced by using the fly- After the prototype and by-wire system instead FSD programs, the first of the heavier hydraulic Block 1 F-16 (78-0001) system. The YF-16 is the flew for the first time on first aircraft designed August 16, 1978 and was and manufactured to be delivered to the U.S. Air aerodynamically unstable. YF-16, the prototype to the F-16 Fighting Falcon, flies an aerial refueling mission in March of 1975 Force that same month. This characteristic, which Most Block 1 and Block 5 is also known as Relaxed capabilities started to Air Force (EPAF) as 116 aircraft were upgraded to Static Stability, increases be increased during Full F-16s for Belgium, 58 Block 10 in 1982 under the the agility of the plane. By Scale Development (FSD). for Denmark, 102 for the Pacer Loft program. The its very nature, a stable The number of pylons Netherlands, and 72 for new production Block 10 aircraft wants to switch to was increased from five Norway. As part of this aircraft (312 in total) was a level flight if its controls to nine. By mid-1975, process, two production manufactured until 1980. are released. This is called the aircraft's size and lines were established in The differences between Positive Static Stability. weight increased with Europe, one at the Fokker these early F-16 versions RSS planes require new capabilities. Almost Schiphol-Oost plant in the were relatively small. The numerous control inputs two years after winning Netherlands, and the other Pratt & Whitney F100- or trim changes to fly. the ACF competition, at SABCA's Gosselies plant PW-200 afterburning On the other hand, these the first F-16A aircraft in Belgium. turbofan engine was momentary changes are manufactured by General used in the aircraft. It executed by the F-16's Dynamics made its first Starting from the initial has a thrust of 12,240lb onboard computer, flight on December 8, 1976, design phase, the F-16 (dry thrust) and 23,830lb which is integrated into followed by the F-16B in gained new capabilities (129.7 kN) with afterburner. the fly-by-wire system to August 1977. Unlike Soviet over time. All significant Starting with Block 1, all ensure that the aircraft aircraft, the two-seat F-16B changes on the F-16 F-16s were equipped with flies properly. The ejection had full combat capability, fighters are displayed in the ACES II ejection seat. seat reclined 30 degrees and both the F-16A and B Block numbers. As the The Tactical Air Command from vertical to reduce had the same dimensions. block number increases, officially named the F-16A the effect of g-forces on The only difference was the aircraft's capabilities the Fighting Falcon, the pilot. The plane also that the B models had also increase. During its but its pilots and crews features a side-mounted approximately 17% less development, the F-16 commonly used Viper control stick to ease internal fuel capacity. gradually became heavier because it was quick, agile, control while maneuvering. Internal fuel capacity as if mocking its original and very deadly. With the HOTAS, HUD, was lowered for the rear production purpose and and the bubble canopy, cockpit. turned into a multirole F-16A/B Block 15 the pilot's situational fighter aircraft. More awareness was increased. The USAF decided to than 4,500 planes were The production of All these technologies had buy 650 F-16s in the late manufactured under 983 Block 15s were been tried in some aircraft 1970s. On June 7, 1975, eight main models in 139 manufactured in three and research programs four European partner different configurations production lines (America, before. But with the YF-16, countries (Belgium, and were used by 29 Belgium, Netherlands) and it was the first time that all Denmark, the Netherlands, countries. More than spanned over fourteen elements came together and Norway), now known 3,000 operational F-16s years. Block 15s are the on a production aircraft. as the European Accession are in service today in 25 most produced model Group, ordered 348 countries. The first two YF- among F-16 aircraft. Many The LWF planes were F-16As/Bs at the Paris 16 prototypes and eight of them still fly in various designed to have Air Show for US$2,168 Full-Scale Development Air Forces around the high maneuverability; billion. Described as the (FSD) aircraft did not world. Its vertical stabilizer however, they had to sale of the century, this receive block numbers. is 30% larger. This is the grow when they were order was split among the These planes are called most apparent difference converted to ACF. Their European Participation Block 0. Let's examine between Block 15 and

79 ©©Cem DOĞUT Pakistani Air Force F-16B (MLU) during the Anatolian Eagle exercise

previous F-16 versions. features improved small "Falcon Up" program, the countermeasure (ECM) The larger tail provides target detection and service life is extended to pods and advanced chaff/ better balance and control, “look-down, shoot-down” 8,000 hours. The most flare dispensers. Portugal, especially at higher attack capabilities. Block 15 critical element of the MLU Jordan, and Pakistan later angles. Block 15s gained aircraft were also equipped package is the Modular joined the MLU program. new abilities with an with the AN/APX-109 IFF Mission Computer (MMC). Operational Capability transponder, AN/ARC- The new computer's F-16 C/D Block Upgrade (OCU) such as the 220 High-Frequency (HF) processing speed is 740 25 data transfer unit, the radar Airborne Radio Set, and times faster than the old The C/D models represent altimeter, the WAR (Wide a 150,000-candlepower computer in the original the second generation of Angle Reflective) HUD spotlight fitted forward F-16, and it has more than F-16 planes. The fuselage is (Head-Up Display), the and below the cockpit. 180 times the memory. mostly the same. The most advanced Westinghouse From the late 1980s to the Other changes that came notable visual difference AN/APG-66(V)2 radar with early 1990s, 271 Block 15 with the MLU included is the triangular-shaped “track while-scan” mode aircraft were converted to wide-angle HUD, full-color part under the vertical and AIM-7 Sparrow and ADF. multifunction displays stabilizer. This piece was AIM-120 launch capability. (MFD), Integrated Control enlarged in C/D models One of the most significant F-16A/B Block Panel (ICP which are the to accommodate the new improvements was the 20 buttons below the HUD), communications antenna. Pratt & Whitney F100- ring laser gyroscope Produced for the Air Other changes include PW-220 engine, which (RLG) inertial navigation Force (Republic of China an improved fire control was more powerful and system (INS), miniaturized Air Force) these aircraft, computer, an inertial reliable. GPS receivers, Digital actually, are identical to navigation system (INS), Terrain System (DTS), Block 50/52 in capability. multifunction displays F-16A Block improved data modems, This was a purely political (MFD), a new data transfer 15 ADF (AIR and the AN/APX-113 classification which aimed unit, a radar altimeter, DEFENSE Advanced Identification to avoid problems with and a jam-resistant UHF Friend-or-Foe system FIGHTER) China. radio. The most significant (AIFF) transponder. The change in C/Ds was the The ADF program was cockpit lights were made radar. The new AN/APG- initiated to protect United compatible with night 68 radar offered greater States airspace and to F-16AM/BM vision systems. Helmet- range, anti-jamming replace the aging F-4 MLU Mounted Display (HMD) capability, increased and F-106 aircraft. For air- was also added to the target resolution, and new to-air combat missions, The top five F-16 user aircraft. An Electronic operating modes. the F-16A Block 15 OCU countries (Belgium, Warfare Management aircraft were equipped Denmark, Netherlands, System (EWMS) developed F-16 C/D Block with additional systems, Norway, and the United by the Danish defense and 30/32 including the AN/APG- States) decided to aerospace manufacturer 66A radar. The radar can modernize the avionics Terma Elektronik A/S The first F-16C Block 30/32 provide continuous-wave and improve their aircraft's controls the entire EW model flew on June 12, illumination for beyond structural integrity. Thus, package, including the 1986. The most notable visual range missiles like the MLU (Mid Life Update) radar warning receiver change in this block was the AIM-7 Sparrow. It also program started. With the (RWR), electronic the introduction of an

80 alternative engine to the Pratt & Whitney F100. The - GE-100 started to be offered as a new engine alternative. The reason for this was to prevent PW from becoming a monopoly and to get better prices for the engines. The problems experienced in the first F100 engines were the ©©Ömer ERKMEN most crucial reason behind USAFE (United States Air Forces in Europe) F-16C Block 50 with HARM Targeting System (HTS) this decision. Later, the Alternative Fighter Engine powered by the GE F110- Reflective) system. Two Moreover, the landing (AFE) program (also known GE-100 engine and had a additional stations (5R lights on the main landing as “The Great Engine Normal Shock Inlet (NSI) and 5L) were added under gear in Block 30 and earlier War”) was initiated. Now, like the early production the air intake. Consisting models were moved to two companies would Block 30s. The F-16N was of two pods, the AAQ-13 the front landing gear compete to provide also equipped with the Navigation pod of the door due to the LANTIRN engines for the next AN/PG-66 radar, as in LANTIRN system is carried integration. Thanks to the blocks. If the Block number the F-16A models. There on 5L, while the AAQ-14 structural improvements of the F-16 ends with “0” it were also minor structural is carried made in Block 40/42, the indicates that it has a GE differences to meet the on 5R. The navigation pod take-off weight increased engine while “2” indicates Navy's requirements. The contains a forward-looking from 37,500 lbs. to 42,300 that it has a PW engine. plane lacked an internal infrared (FLIR) camera and lbs. and the weight limit Block 30/32 was planned 20mm cannon. Twenty- terrain-following radar. during 9-g maneuvers to have a common engine two F-16N and four TF-16N The image from FLIR can increased from 26,900 lbs. bay that accepts both were produced from 1987 be displayed on the HUD. to 28,500 lbs. engines. But in reality, to 1988. The aircraft flew at This allows the pilots to fly that’s not what happened, the Navy Fighter Weapons the plane without night- F-16 C/D Block as a modification kit School (Top Gun). vision goggles. Using 50/52 was needed to change the information from the the engines. Another With Block 50/52, F-16 F-16 C/D Block terrain-following radar, situation that prevented fighters acquired AGM- 40/42 digital flight controls the removal of the PW 88A HARM (High-speed can automatically fly the engine and the installation With Block 40/42, the F-16 Anti-Radiation Missiles) aircraft at the desired of the GE engine was the gained night/all-weather launch capability. Thus, altitude, following the production of larger air navigation and precision the planes became landforms. The targeting intake for F-16 aircraft attack capabilities. capable of performing pod consists of a forward- using GE engines. The Original analog flight SEAD (Suppression of looking infrared (FLIR) large air intake is called the controls were replaced Enemy Air Defense) camera and a laser Modular Common Intake with digital flight controls. missions. The Block 50/52 designator. Thanks to Duct (MCID) or bigmouth. The flight control system planes use HARM missiles the FLIR, the target can MCID allows the GE engine controls the aircraft via the command launch be detected and tracked to deliver full thrust even at digitally together with computer interface. in all weather conditions, low airspeeds. Additionally, other avionics in the plane. Additionally, the U.S. day or night. Additionally, radar warning receiver This feature enabled the Air Force F-16s carry the the main landing gear (RWR) antennas were integration of the LANTIRN HARM Targeting System was extended to increase installed on the leading- pods to the aircraft. Block (HTS). In this way, the the height of the aircraft, edge flaps. The previous 40/42 also introduced location of enemy radars and larger wheels started blocks were also fitted with more capable AN/APG- can be detected more to be used due to the these antennas later. 68(V)3 or AN/APG-68(V)5 precisely from longer increased weight. As a radar (depending on the distances. Block 50/52 result, the landing-gear The F-16N model user) and the new WAR jets are also equipped doors feature a slight produced for the U.S. (Wide Angle Reflective) with AN/APG-68(V)5 or bulge to accommodate Navy was a variant of the HUD which is compatible AN/APG-68(V)7 radars and larger diameter wheels. F-16C Block 30. It was with LANTIRN (Wide Angle advance IFF transponders.

81 Roughly 50% of the F-16I's avionics are of Israeli origin. Elbit provided the mission computer, display processor, the advanced central interface unit, and the moving map display. Rafael provided the digital terrain system (DTS), central air data computer (CADC), data link, HF, VHF, and UHF band encrypted radio as well as multifunctional displays (MFD). While BAE Systems produced HUDs of the first 25 Sufa, the rest of the jets were equipped with Elbit ©©Ömer ERKMEN El-Op HUD-DU. All Sufa's F-16D Barak aircraft is the first model to feature an ADS (Avionics Dorsal Spine). have a HUD repeater in The ECM antenna is visible in the "drag chute" housing the rear cockpit, which allows information sharing New munitions such as the range of 75km. The IFF as they received the same between the weapon AGM-84 Harpoon anti- system was replaced with avionics suite of the C system officer in the rear ship guided missile and the AN/APX-113 Advanced models. Thanks to these seat and the pilot. Both the AGM-154A/B Joint Identification Friend features and the presence crew members can use Stand-off Weapon (JSOW) or Foe (AIFF) System of a officer the Elbit DASH IV helmet- were also introduced with with 185km range. The in the rear seat, Block 50+ mounted display. The this block upgrade. With most obvious physical Ds gained the long-range primary sensor of the the Block 50/52 Increased difference of the aircraft precision strike capability. F-16I is the AN/APG-68(V)9 Performance Engines is the CFT (Conformal Other users, primarily radar. Radar data and (IPE) program, Block 50s Fuel Tanks) added on , bought these moving map information started to be powered the body and added on planes specifically for this are combined with Rafael by General Electric F110- the ADS (Avionics Dorsal purpose. DTS data, enabling safe GE-129 engines and Block Spine) with D models. F-16I SUFA flight at low altitudes by 52s by Pratt & Whitney The aircraft can carry 450 using terrain features. This F100-PW-229 engines. gallons of extra fuel in Based on F-16D Block sensor fusion allows flying its CFTs and still pull 9-g 52+, the maximum under radar coverage. The F-16 C/D Block maneuvers. CFT provides 50/52+ “Plus” take-off weight of the Elisra active and passive an approximate 1,650km F-16I was increased to self-protection system operational radius with The ‘Plus’ upgrade 23,600kg, making it the forms the center of the an approximately 50% improved the air-to- heaviest Viper model ever Electronic Warfare (EW) increase in internal fuel. air and air-to-ground produced. In the 1970s, the suite of the F-16I. The This means around 40% capabilities of Block 50 power-to-weight ratio of system uses optical IR more range than F-16s planes with the AN/APG- the original F-16A was 1.02, sensors to detect the heat without the CFT. The 68(V)9 radar. With the while in the F-16I, this ratio generated by incoming primary purpose of the new radar, the mean time dropped to 0.56. While the missiles. Unlike other F-16s, ADS is to increase the between failure (MTBF) power-weight ratio of the Sufa jets are equipped avionic carrying capacity, was reduced %50, and the F-16, which was designed with eight chaff/flare which was decreased due range was extended %33. as a lightweight fighter dispensers. to the rear cockpit in D Thanks to the added SAR/ at the beginning of the models. This allowed F-16 F-16 E/F Block GMTI feature, it can detect project, was above 1, this aircraft to carry ECM and the target's location ratio started to decrease 60 communication systems precisely and destroy it as the aircraft gained new that they had not been This version was with GPS-guided JDAM. In abilities. This is the most able to carry internally developed to meet the SAR mode, it can provide apparent proof of the before. Thanks to the ADS, UAE's need for a multi-role images with a resolution F-16's transformation into a D models can also be used fighter with more air-to- of 91.44cm (3ft) from a multi-role fighter over time. in non-training missions ground strike capabilities.

82 UAE Air Force F-16E Block 60 with Pylon Integrated Dispenser System (PIDS). The Block 60 features an AN/APG-80 AESA ©©Cem DOĞUT (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar

The aircraft needed to US$3 billion for all the a new environmental aircraft, is intended to carry much heavier loads research and development control system (ECS) was be the same as the new than standard F-16Cs and costs of the Block 60. installed for the avionics. aircraft. The Northrop with an extended combat New inlets and exhaust Grumman ANAPG-83 radius to reach Iran, Internally, Block 60 is a vents were placed in the SABR (Scalable Agile which the UAE perceived very different aircraft from tail section and under the Beam Radar) radar forms as a threat. Based on the F-16C / D hull. The most fuselage to provide airflow the center of the program. the experience from the critical system integrated for the ECS. Another important feature 1990-1991 Gulf War, more on Block 60 is the AN/ of the F-16V configuration advanced sensors and APG-80 AESA (Active Other equipment specific is the CPD (Center systems were needed for Electronically Scanned to Block 60 includes the Pedestal Display). With its self-protection and to Array) radar. The UAE Northrop Grumman AN/ high resolution 6 x 8-inch carry out precision strikes, became the first user of AAQ-32 Internal FLIR screen, it allows the pilot especially in adverse this new and revolutionary Targeting System (IFTS) to take full advantage of weather conditions. radar technology outside derived from the AN/AAQ- the data from the radar Deciding to invest in the the USA. Compared to the 28 Litening. The system and targeting pod. The new version of the F-16 mechanically scanned projects a view of where Auto GCAS (Automatic to meet these needs, legacy radars, the stronger the aircraft is going on the Ground Collision the UAE undertook the and more capable AN/ HUD in the cockpit. The Avoidance System) system development costs of APG-80 radar costs less to IFTS can passively detect has become standard with the aircraft. The contract operate and maintain. The and track air targets. Block the Viper configuration. for 80 aircraft, related multifunctional (air-to- 60 is also equipped with Thanks to this system, equipment, and services air, air-to-ground, terrain the Northrop Grumman the aircraft performs a (estimated to be US$6.4 following, etc.) radar can Falcon Edge Integrated self-rescue maneuver billion) was signed in continuously search and Electronic Warfare System. without pilot intervention March 2000. simultaneously track to prevent collisions if the multiple targets. The AN/ F-16V ‘VIPER’ Block 70/72 pilot passes out as a result Since the structural APG-80 can also generate of high Gs or if the airplane integrity, avionics high-resolution synthetic started gets out of control and capability, and thrust aperture radar (SAR) to work on Block 70/72 loses altitude as a result power of the Block 60 images. The installation to provide F-16 users with of disorientation. With the configuration increased of the AN/APG-80 and the new capabilities that new radar, avionics, secure significantly; it received other avionic systems they need in the current data link, and electronic a new classification. The caused some structural combat environment. The warfare systems, the new generation Viper changes. The pitot tube "Mid-Life Update" (MLU) Viper will have reached family F-16E/F was born. was removed from the program, which will be operation levels of a fifth- The UAE invested around front of the radome, and applied to existing F-16 generation aircraft.

83 F-16 Fighting Falcon's Adventure

To establish the aviation establish, preserve, and Command officials aircraft were eliminated industry in our country, regulate the National and Turkish Aerospace for performance and three significant attempts Aviation Industry in light personnel was established economic reasons, while were made in 1925, 1935, of previous initiatives, in March 1979 to identify the Mirage F1 and 2000 and 1939 and a total of 252 the Turkish Aircraft the aircraft that met were eliminated due civil and military aircraft Industries Corporation the qualifications at the to France's anti-Turkey were manufactured, and "TUSAŞ" (55% owned directive of the General attitude. As an alternative, some were even exported by the Treasury and 45% Staff. In April 1979, the three American aircraft to foreign countries. by the Higher Planning Council were left. These were the Although factories were Support Foundation) was decided to establish an F-16C/D, F/A-18, and F-5G. established and started established under the aircraft factory in Ankara, All the manufacturers production, these auspices of the Ministry of and the expropriation of 5 of these three aircraft initiatives, which aimed Industry and Technology million m2 of land started also accepted the joint to bring new and modern by Law No. 1784, adopted at the Mürted region. production requirement management systems to on June 28, 1973. Turkish Negotiations were held of Turkey. The F-16C/D our country, had to stop Aerospace worked on the with international aircraft and F/A-18A aircraft were their activities due to co-production project of manufacturers and their selected for the final bottlenecks in production the evolutionary-close governments, and these two in the tender and and management due support aircraft needed negotiations continued Turkey sent a Request to the lack of necessary by the Air Force Command for about three years. In for Proposal (RFP) to support. Therefore, between 1976 and 1977 the 1980s, General Muhsin the US Government for the Turkish Air Force and was stopped in Batur started the "Build the joint production of Support Foundation October 1977 when the Your Own Plane" project. 160 aircraft in 10 years. was established on July agreement phase of the As a result of the activities In August 1983, General 16, 1970, to meet the project was reached. carried out in this context, Dynamics F-16C/D aircraft industry's investment Later, a delegation the F-14, F-15, Viggen, were selected for joint and financing needs. To consisting of Air Force Jaguar and Tornado production.

84 ©©Cem DOĞUT

Turkey's F-16 adventure 49% of this company was with a ceremony held at and 3 F-16D Block 30s started on December 9, owned by TUSAŞ, 2% was General Dynamics Fort were manufactured. As 1983, with the signing of owned by the Turkish Worth facilities on July 17, of the 44th plane, Block the Letter of Acceptance Aeronautical Association 1987. 4 of the eight planes 40 configuration planes (LOA) between the Turkish and the Turkish Air Force flew to Turkey in 1987. The started to be delivered. Air Force and the U.S. Air Support Foundation, and other four aircraft were Initially, the production Force for 160 F-16 aircraft. 49% was owned by foreign delivered by cargo aircraft. process only started as the The total cost of this shareholding. The first F-16C Block 30 assembly of parts, but later project, called PEACE (86-0068) manufactured Turkish Aerospace started ONYX, was US$4 billion. Turkish Aerospace started at Turkish Aerospace to manufacture 70% of the With the agreement, the its first F-16 production facilities made its first aircraft fuselage. first eight aircraft would activities on February flight on October 14, 1987, be manufactured at 2, 1987, including the under the control of test The Turkish F-16 aircraft General Dynamics Fort front, middle, and rear pilot Şener KOLTUK. Within Self Protection Electronic Worth facilities, while fuselage assembly. The the framework of the Warfare System (SPEWS) the remaining 152 (136 assembly activities of the Peace Onyx program, the contract worth US$325 F-16C and 24 F-16D) F-16 aircraft continued first 4 F-16D fighters were million was signed would be manufactured with the production delivered on October 20, between MIKES and at TUSAŞ facilities. In July of the rear and middle 1987, with a big ceremony. the Undersecretariat for 1984, General Electric's fuselage in 1988 and the After completing its Defence Industries (SSM) F110-GE-100 engine was wing production in 1989. tests, the first F-16C in September 1989. The chosen to be used on the Aselsan manufactured the aircraft manufactured by AN/ALQ-178(V)3 system F-16C/D aircraft. Turkish LN-39 INS system to be Turkish Aerospace was produced by the LORAL Aerospace Industries was used in the aircraft under delivered to the Turkish company was selected. established in 1984 with the Litton license. The first Air Force on November A national threat library General Dynamics, with F-16 aircraft were delivered 27, 1987. Until January was also established with US$137 million in capital. to the Turkish Air Force 1990, 32 F-16C Block 30s the project. The system

85 engines have an increased thrust of 29,000lbs. (13,182kg). In return for Turkey's support after Operation Desert Storm, the Turkish Defense Fund (TDF) was established with the participation of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, the US, and Turkey. This Fund was created primarily to finance the Peace Onyx ll program. The related deliveries under the Peace Onyx/Öncel-I Project were completed in March ©©Cem DOĞUT 1994. Production of the aircraft started in July Turkish Air Force F-16C Block 50M aircraft were equipped with the AN/ALQ-178(V)5+ ECM system under the SPEWS-II project. The distinctive ECM antennas are an integral part of 1996 under the Peace the formation lights Onyx-II program. With this project, Turkish Aerospace can warn in the C-J band became the second logistic support, and increased its aircraft and jam in the D-J band. country in the world to maintenance/repair manufacturing rate to 80% The system displays the carry out its own EW test capabilities. The LANTIRN with the addition of the threats and alerts the pilot after Israel. Moreover, pods and support front fuselage parts and with an audible warning. MIKES completed the equipment arrived in flaperons. The last plane It consists of two main engineering work on the Turkey in June 1993. 6 pilots of the PO-II program was parts, RWR and ECM. compatibility of ALQ-178 selected by the Turkish delivered at a ceremony With the project, 160 RWR and AIM-120 AMRAAM Air Force completed their held on November 12, 1999. (Radar Warning Receiver) missiles in cooperation receive combat readiness Thus, 60 F-16C Block 50 and 122 ECM (Electronic with Lockheed, Hughes, training in the USA. The and 20 F-16D Block 50s Countermeasures) and Raytheon. Thus, "Bat (Yarasa)" LANTIRN entered the inventory of systems would be installed Turkey verified that Squadron was established the Turkish Air Force. With on the aircraft. Since there the ECM system could with 2 US instructor the widespread use of BVR wasn’t enough room operate without jamming pilots and six additional (Beyond Visual Range) for the ECM system's the seeker of the AIM- pilot trainees and was missiles such as AIM-120 avionics in F-16D jets, 120 missile. The ALQ- activated on 6 January AMRAAM, the importance only the passive RWR 178 Electronic Warfare 1994. During this period, of IFF (Identification system was installed. Modification Program all pilots received training, Friend or Foe) systems Within the framework of was combined with the especially in AGM-65G has increased. Using an IFF the project, an intense and "Falcon-Up" program to and GBU-10/B firing transponder is not enough challenging test program save time and costs. tactics and techniques. In to determine whether the was carried out in the USA 1997, 20 more targeting target detected by radar for over two years with a The Turkish Air Force pods were ordered. is friend or foe, and an team of 30 members of acquired the LANTIRN aircraft must be equipped the Turkish Air Force, two (Low-Altitude Navigation The Peace Onyx-II with an interrogator F-16 and accompanying Targeting Infrared System program started on March system. Therefore, the pilots, technicians, and for Night) system through 26, 1992, with the signing AN/APX-109 IFF system engineers. During the the FMS channel under of the Letter of Acceptance was installed to Block 50 tests, various Eastern and the Peace Moon program. (LOA) between the Turkish aircraft to allow the F-16s Western radar sensors Within the framework Air Force and the US Air to safely fire AIM-120B imitated different threats of the US$183 million Force, which included the missiles after interrogating in various scenarios Peace Moon contract, purchase of 40 F-16C/D targets detected with the defined by the Turkish 40 navigation pods and Block 50 and the 40 APG-68(V)5 radar. Another Air Force and detailed 20 targeting pods would optional aircraft. Within addition is the AGM- by MIKES. A total of 40 be delivered along with the scope of the program, 88A HARM capability sorties were conducted. the necessary technical 96 F110-GE-129 were against enemy radars. In With this study, Turkey and tactical training, produced by TEI. The new September 1998, the 151st

86 Squadron was activated at the 5th Main Jet Base with its Block 50 aircraft and AGM-88 missiles. Unfortunately, the PO- II planes flew without Electronic Warfare capability for many years. Due to the delayed electronic warfare system selection within the scope of the Öncel-I Project, the aircraft had to return to the factory again to receive the necessary modifications. In addition to the extra time spent, this cost about an additional US$25 million. Despite this experience, ©©Turkish Air Forces the electronic warfare system's selection process the contract signed at lost due to accidents. AGM-84K SLAM-ER could not be completed in the Undersecretariat for With the CCIP program, missiles. The CCIP project time as part of the Öncel- Defense Industries, it the Turkish F-16s were serial modernization II Project. The US$223 was decided to integrate upgraded to the level protocol was signed on million SPEWS-II contract the AN/ALQ-178(V)5+ of Block 50+ jets. The January 19, 2010. With to provide Electronic system into F-16C Block first phase of the project the project, a total of 165 Warfare systems for 50 aircraft. Aselsan was covered the procurement F-16C/D Block 40 and a total of 80 Öncel-II selected as the main of the necessary avionics Block 50 aircraft were F-16C/D Block 50 aircraft contractor with MIKES for the modernization modernized. The F-16C/D was signed on March 22, as the subcontractor. But program. These were Block 30 jets also received 1999. However, for various the problems remained. later integrated into ten a partial modernization. reasons, this contract was The SPEWS-II project was prototype aircraft at The 1st HIBM Command terminated on October 25, completed in 2016 after Turkish Aerospace facilities and Turkish Aerospace 1999, and on December 6, the CCIP program. under two steps, TVI (Trial replaced the RIBs (Turkish 1999, a new agreement Verification Installation) Aerospace production) on was signed with Aselsan With the PO-III program, and LTF (Lead the Fleet). the bulkheads and wings under the same project. studies began in 2003 for On July 2, 2007, the TVI of the planes to extend the The deal was canceled the mid-life upgrade of the phase started with the life of the Block 30 type before coming into force F-16s, the leading combat arrival of one F-16C Block F-16s. The PO-III aircraft due to both the political aircraft of the Turkish Air 40, F-16D Block 40, F-16C had the same mission developments in France Force. In this context, a Block 50, and F-16D Block computer (MMC 7000) against Turkey, which program similar to the 50 at Turkish Aerospace and Operational Flight affected Aselsan's partner Common Configuration facilities. Turkish Program (OFP) as the PO- in the project directly, Implementation Program Aerospace completed the IV aircraft. Source codes and the USA's restrictions (CCIP) of the US Air Force modification of these four of Block 40 aircraft were on the use of foreign was prepared for F-16 planes as part of the TVI taken from the USA before electronic warfare systems aircraft. The project aimed phase and then sent them CCIP. The Block 40 System on its own production to modernize Block 40 to the USA for testing at Integration Laboratory platforms. As a result of and 50s to meet current Lockheed Martin's Forth (SIL) was established at the the negotiations, Aselsan needs and to eliminate the Worth facilities. During 1st HIBM, and nationally took over 72% of MIKES differences between the the tests conducted at developed ammunition shares, and 3% of shares Blocks. Fort Worth, 4 F-16C / D started to be integrated were transferred to the Block 40 and Block 50 into the aircraft. Turkey SSM (now the SSB). The While the CCIP project was aircraft carried out a requested the source code process, which was turned continuing, 30 F-16C/D series of test flights with of the MMC 7000 mission into an unresolved mess, Block 50+ were ordered JSOW, AIM-9X Sidewinder, computer software, but ended with a new tender under the PO-IV program AIM-120C AMRAAM and the USA did not accept this on January 15, 2003. With to replace the planes

87 request. Within the scope of Serial Modernization, Turkish Aerospace delivered the first aircraft to the Turkish Air Force on November 2, 2011. 149 of 165 aircraft were modernized at Turkish Aerospace facilities and the other 16 aircraft at 1st HIBM facilities under the main contractor Turkish Aerospace.

Under the project, F-16C/D Block 40 and 50 planes received the common ©©Cem DOĞUT configuration upgrades F-16C Block-30TM (Turkish Modernization) aircraft with the DB-110 reconnaissance pod as follows: delivery of the F-16D Block the AN/ALQ-211(V)4 can be develop the hardware of • Advanced Modular 40M (aircraft that received carried internally, allowing the mission computer to Mission Computer CCIP modernization are the aircraft to be used for be used in modernization, • Advanced AN/APG- identified with M) with tail combat missions. Unlike and Turkish Aerospace 68(V)9 radar number 89-0044. other F-16C/D planes will develop the OFP • AN/APX-113 AIFF in the Turkish Air Force software. An F-16C Block At the Defense Industry inventory, Block 50+ 30 (87-0019) was used as • LINK-16 Executive Committee aircraft are painted with the prototype aircraft in • Self Protection (SSIK) meeting held in a special radar-absorbing the project. The cockpit Electronic Warfare December 2006 for the (RAM) paint called Have of the plane was also System (SPEWS-II) Peace Onyx-IV program, Glass II, which reduces updated, and a new full- • LANTIRN-ER the Undersecretariat the plane's radar cross- color multifunction display Navigation Pod for Defense Industries section. Additionally, the (MFD), middle cockpit (SSM) was authorized • SNIPER / ASELPOD liquid oxygen system display and engine display Targeting Pod to procure 30 F-16 Block in previous models was have been added. Work on 50+ (16D and 14C) aircraft replaced with the On- the first aircraft continue • Joint Helmet Mounted from Lockheed Martin Cueing System Board Oxygen Generating within the scope of the (JHMCS) via the Foreign Military System (OBOGS), which project. Sales (FMS) channel. is safer and easier to • Integrated GPS/INS Accordingly, Turkish For the 19 F-16D Block 50, System maintain. Aerospace signed a 13 F-16D Block 40, and 8 • Full-color MFD contract with the main The Özgür Project, which F-16D Block 30 aircraft started on December 15, that are in the Turkish Air • Electronic Data Entry contractor, Lockheed System Martin, on December 5, 2010, at the request of Force inventory and do not 2008. The program ended the Air Force Command, have an active Electronic 50 AGM-154A, 50 AGM- with the last F-16D Block aims to equip 35 F-16 Warfare system, a total of 154C, 50 AGM-84K 50+ (07-1030) delivered Block 30 aircraft, which 42 (in two batches) Exelis SLAM_ER, 50 CBU-105, on December 11, 2012. were not modernized AN/ALQ-211(V)9 Advanced 200 GBU-31, 200 GBU- This aircraft is the 308th under the CCIP project, Integrated Defensive 38, 127 AIM-9X, 107 AIM- and last aircraft produced with a national mission Electronic Warfare Suite 120C-7, 30 AN/AAQ-33 by Turkish Aerospace. computer (OFP) and (AIDEWS) pods were Sniper Targeting Pod, Unlike the PO-III, the PO- national avionics. With procured via the Foreign 30 AN/AAQ-13 LANTIRN IV aircraft are equipped the nationalization of Military Sales (FMS) ER navigation pod and with the AN/ALQ-211(V)4 mission computers, the channel. The pods have an 20 ASELPODs were also Advanced Integrated project aims to ensure all-digital radar warning purchased for use on the Defensive Electronic the integration of national receiver, broadband PO-III and PO-IV aircraft. Warfare Suite (AIDEWS). air-to-air and air-to- digital radio frequency These aircraft can carry ground munitions. The memory (DRFM), ALQ- The PO-III program was a CFT. The F-16D Block experience will be used 213 Countermeasure successfully completed 50+ aircraft also feature a in the Hürjet and MMU Set (CMS), in-flight on April 10, 2015, with the Dorsal Spine. In this way, projects. Aselsan will reprogramming, and both

88 low (B, C, D) and high (J and K) Radio Frequency jamming capabilities.

On 24 December 2012, 4 DB-110 reconnaissance pods and 2 Image Analysis Stations (one fixed and one mobile) were ordered. Although the pods were initially planned to be integrated into F-16C/D Block 50+ planes, the contract was later renewed to integrate them into F-16C/D Block 30 planes. A new Operational Flight Program (OFP) was needed for integration into the F-16C Block ©©Cem DOĞUT 30s. F-16C Block-30TM Turkish Air Force F-16C Block 40M (Falcon-up) during aerial refueling. This particular F-16 (Turkish Modernization) (90-0011) is also the former aircraft of the "Solo Türk" Demo Team planes in which the pods are integrated were increase the service life evolved from a lightweight with production and modernized in the 1st of 35 F-16C/D Block day fighter to a deep strike modernization, and now HIBM before integration 30 aircraft. With this aircraft in a few decades. we can design our own and some of their avionics, modernization, the service It is more than enough to aircraft. "Build Your Own especially the mission life of the F-16C/D Block look at the production Plane" came true. As the computer, were upgraded. 30 aircraft was planned numbers and the number main strike force of our The old generation EFCC to be extended to 12,000 of users to understand Air Force for 33 years, Mission Computer used in hours from 8,000 hours. how successful the design F-16 fighters will continue the aircraft was replaced is. If we look at Turkey, to be our main strength in with the GAC Mission The F-16 is one of the the F-16 changed our the skies for a long time Computer with national most upgraded aircraft in aviation industry as much to come thanks to our OFP, which was removed aviation history. There is a as it changed our military indigenous munitions, from the F-16C Block lot of difference between aviation. Thanks to the national modernization 40 aircraft modernized its original purpose and its "Fighting Falcon," we now projects such as "Özgür" under the CCIP program, current use. It reached a have an aviation industry and the continuous and the LN-39 INS/GPS completely different level that started with assembly development of our was replaced by the in terms of capability. It and then continued on defense industry more advanced LN-93 INS/GPS. This project was carried out by the 1st HIBM's Technology and Weapon System Development Command, using completely national capabilities. The integration of the pods was completed with the test flights of the 401st Test Squadron.

Under the F-16 Block 30 Structural Modernization Program contract signed on 10 August 2015, structural improvement ©©Aselsan work was started to F-16 "Özgür" Cockpit

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