staff@slashgear.com (Jonathan H. Kantor)
2024-05-23 10:45:59
www.slashgear.com
The F-16 is a legacy aircraft, so it’s not uncommon to wonder why it continues flying around the world. There are numerous reasons it remains active despite its age, but the main reasons are availability and cost. With more than 2,000 airframes currently operational worldwide, they remain accessible to a variety of nations. Cost is relatively low compared to modern equivalents, and with upgrades, the F-16 stays relevant.
For nations like Ukraine, hoping to retain territory, operating F-16s is easily within the wheelhouse of Ukrainian pilots, as they’re comparatively easy to learn to operate. In addition to availability and cost, the F-16 has a proven track record in combat operations and as a multirole fighter capable of carrying out everything from dogfighting other fighters to bombing targets and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions over enemy territory.
Ultimately, the F-16 is an excellent fighter that’s kept pace with modern equivalents, but there’s more to it than that. In May 2024, the U.S. outfitted F-16s with automated AI-controlled systems, making the multirole fighter a highly efficient AI drone. While it may take years for these to become combat-effective, the inclusion of AI demonstrates the aircraft’s versatility and ability to adapt to nascent technologies, ensuring the F-16 remains an active and popular platform for years to come.