General Dynamics F-16AM Fighting Falcon Aircraft Data
In 1989 a two-year study began regarding possible mid-life upgrades for the USAF’s and European Partner Air Forces’ (EPAF’s) F-16A's. The resulting F-16 Mid-Life Update (MLU) package was designed to upgrade the cockpit and avionics to the equivalent of that on the F-16C Block 50; add the ability to employ radar-guided air-to-air missiles; and to generally enhance the operational performance and improve the reliability, supportability and maintainability of the aircraft. Aircraft receiving this set of updates are designated F-16AM.
Development began in May 1991 and continued until 1997; however, the USAF withdrew from the MLU program in 1992, although it did procure the modular mission computer for its Block 50/52 aircraft.
Development began in May 1991 and continued until 1997; however, the USAF withdrew from the MLU program in 1992, although it did procure the modular mission computer for its Block 50/52 aircraft.
- Country of Origin: United States
- First Flight: 1995
- Initial Service Date: 1998
- No. Built: 317
- No. In Service: 309
- No. of Hardpoints: 11
- Crew: 1
Power:
1 x Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220E turbofan at 14,590 lbf
Weapons:
1 x 20-mm M61A1 Vulcan cannon with 510 rounds
AIM-9 Sidewinder and AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, a wide range of disposable ordnance (free-tall and guided), drop tanks and electronic pods (ECM, reconnaissance and targeting)
AIM-9 Sidewinder and AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, a wide range of disposable ordnance (free-tall and guided), drop tanks and electronic pods (ECM, reconnaissance and targeting)
Dimensions:
| Length: | 49 ft. 4 in. |
| Wing Span: | 32 ft. 10 in. |
| Wing Area: | 300 sq.ft |
| Height: | 16 ft. 5 in. |
| Empty Weight: | 16,285 lbs |
| Max. Weight: | 37,500 lbs |
| Max. Ordnance Load: | 20,450 lbs |
| Max. Payload: | 33,000 lbs |
| Internal Fuel: | 6,970 lbs |
Performance:
| Max. Speed: | 1,320 mph |
| Cruise Speed: | 577 mph |
| Service Ceiling: | 55,000 ft. |
| Normal Range: | 1,222.65 nm |
| Max. Range: | 2,086 nm |
Random great photos of the General Dynamics F-16AM Fighting Falcon:
