The first group of F-16C/D Block 70 fighters left Lockheed Martin facilities on a transfer flight to the Middle East, the manufacturer said on Wednesday (06). Three aircraft took off from the company's plant in Greenville (South Carolina) to Bahrain, one of the first customers for the “new” fighter aircraft.
The squadron, comprised of two two-seat F-16Ds and a single-seat F-16C, marks the first delivery flight since the new Viper assembly line was established in Greenville. Previously manufactured in Texas, production of the F-16 was transferred to make way for the Fifth generation F-35.
According to Lockheed, the "event highlights Bahrain's role as the first member of the Gulf Cooperation Council to operate the F-16 and now the first to integrate the F-16 Block 70 variant into its fleet.”
On the move! ✈️ The very first F-16 Block 70 ferry is now en route to Bahrain! This jet represents a significant leap in 4.5 generation fighter technology, revolutionizing operational capabilities and redefining 21st-century aerial combat for air forces worldwide. pic.twitter.com/yWHIvgA0uz
- Lockheed Martin (@LockheedMartin) March 6, 2024
Two 16 planes ordered by Bahrain, five have already been produced. In addition to the three that headed to the country, two others are performing flight test missions at Edwards Air Force Base, California, with the 416th Flight Test Squadron. The remaining aircraft are in various stages of production and testing, reported Lockheed.
“With the introduction of the F-16 Block 70, we are witnessing a significant leap in fighter capabilities,” said OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager of Lockheed's Integrated Fighter Group. “The integration of this proven platform will enable the Royal Bahraini Air Force to effectively protect its skies and partner with allies around the world.”
The Royal Bahraini Air Force has been using the F-16 for more than 30 years. The first 12 aircraft were acquired in 1987; another 10 fighters were purchased in 1998. The new planes were acquired in 2018 and are valued at US$1,2 billion.
Fifty years after its first flight, the F-16 remains the most used fighter aircraft in the world, with more than 3000 aircraft in service in 25 countries. Lockheed currently has a full backlog of orders for the F-16 including 133 aircraft for six countries.
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