The General Dynamic, now Lockheed Martin, F-16 Fighting Falcon is a multirole jet fighter aircraft originally developed for the United States Air Force. Designed as a lightweight, day-time Visual Flight Rules (VFR) fighter, it evolved into a successful multirole aircraft.
The Falcon's versatility is a paramount reason it has proven a success on the export market, having been selected to serve in the air forces of 25 nations. Though no longer being bought by the U.S. Air Force, advanced versions are still being built for export customers. In 1993, General Dynamics sold its aircraft manufacturing business to the Lockheed Corporation, which in turn became part of Lockheed Martin after a 1995 merger with Martin Marietta.
- Country of Origin:
United States
- First Flight:
1974
- Initial Service Date:
1978
- No. Built:
3,912
- No. In Service:
1,048 (approx.)
- No. of Hardpoints:
8
- Crew:
1
Operators:
Belgium, Denmark, Egypt, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Netherlands, Norway, Pakistan, Portugal, Taiwan, Thailand, United States, Venezuela