So,how are non Slavic people going to read it?
Why dont you translate and post it here?
F 16 fighter: Awaiting the armament of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine
The war in Ukraine continues, and one of the key factors in this fight for freedom is air superiority. Russian aviation significantly exceeds Ukrainian in terms of quantity and quality, so the Armed Forces need modern fighters to even the odds. One of the best fighters in the world is the F 16 Fighting Falcon. This American aircraft is battle-tested and has many advantages, such as high maneuverability, powerful weapons and modern avionics.
F 16 fighters are the embodiment of engineering genius
Ukraine has long sought F16s, and in early 2023 the US finally agreed to provide Ukraine with these aircraft. This marks a turning point in the war, because the F-16 fighter can significantly change the situation in the Ukrainian skies.
This article examines the history and evolution of the F 16, its role in the global aviation industry, as well as its expected introduction into the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU).
History of the F16 fighter
The F16 Fighting Falcon was developed by General Dynamics in the 1970s as a light fighter that would have high maneuverability and a low price. The first flight of the F16 took place on January 20, 1974, and in 1978 it was adopted by the US Air Force.
F16 fighters are a symbol of stability and hope
Combat use of the F16 aircraft in various conflicts
The F 16 Fighting Falcon aircraft, designed for versatility and combat effectiveness, has chosen for itself the glory of the largest fighter of the fourth generation. Its high maneuverability, combat power and reliability have made it a valuable asset to the US Air Force and its allies.
The F16 fighter has been involved in numerous conflicts, including:
Lebanon War (1982)
Gulf War (1991)
Operation "Union Power" (1999)
War in Afghanistan (2001-2021)
War in Iraq (2003-2011)
Civil War in Libya (2011)
Military operation against ISIS (2014-present)
Technical characteristics of the F16 aircraft
The F-16 Fighting Falcon is not just a fighter, it is a symbol of dominance in the skies. His lightning speed, accuracy and unparalleled maneuverability make him a formidable opponent that has no equal. No wonder it is in service with 26 countries and is used for both combat and training purposes.
Dimensions of the f16 plane
Length: 15.03 m
Wing span: 9.45 m
Height: 5.09 m
The weight of the f16 aircraft
Empty weight: 8,578 kg
Maximum take-off weight: 19,140 kg
F16 aircraft engine
One Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 or General Electric F110-GE-132 turbojet engine
Thrust: 12,900 kgf (with afterburner)
Aircraft speed f16
Maximum speed: 2,120 km/h (at an altitude of 12,200 m)
Cruising speed: 907 km/h
F16 flight range
Combat radius: 550 km
Driving range: 3,900 km
Practical ceiling of the f16 plane
15,240 m
Armament of the f16 aircraft
M61A1 Vulcan 20mm six-barreled gun
A wide range of air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles, including the AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-120 AMRAAM, AGM-65 Maverick and AGM-88 HARM
Avionics of the F16 aircraft
Radar AN/APG-68(V)9
LANTIRN infrared guidance system
GPS/INS navigation system
Throughout its life, the F-16 aircraft underwent numerous upgrades during its service life. The latest version is the F 16V Block 70/72, which has a new active phased array radar, improved avionics and new weapon types.
Video about the technical characteristics of the F16 fighter
The f-16 fighter is not just a weapon, it is a symbol of technological excellence. Its innovative engines, aerodynamic features, advanced weaponry and avionics make it the benchmark against which other fighters are measured.
Advantages and disadvantages of the F16 aircraft
The F 16 Fighting Falcon is in service with 26 countries and is used for both combat and training purposes. In this section, we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of the F 16.
Advantages of the f16 aircraft
Fighter f 16 Fighting Falcon is not just a fighter, it is a true legend. Its sleek silhouette has instilled fear in enemies and a sense of security in allies for decades. But what makes the F 16 so outstanding?
High Maneuverability: The F 16 has excellent maneuverability, making it ideal for aerial combat.
Low Price: The F 16 is a relatively inexpensive fighter, making it affordable for many countries.
Ease of Maintenance: The F 16 is easy to maintain, making it an economical choice for the Air Force.
Wide range of weapons: The F 16 can carry a wide range of weapons, making it effective against a variety of targets.
Disadvantages of the f16 plane
And although the f-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft is considered an unsurpassed fighter that has proven its combat effectiveness for decades, it, like any machine, is not without its shortcomings. What are the shortcomings of the F 16 aircraft that can affect its combat effectiveness and pilot safety, its vulnerabilities and limitations?
Short range: The F 16 has a relatively short range, which limits its range.
You very weak radar equipment: The F 16 does not have as powerful a radar equipment as some other fighters.
Vulnerability to Air Defense Systems: The F 16 is vulnerable to air defense systems, making it vulnerable in high threat areas.
But even despite its shortcomings, the F 16 aircraft remains one of the most effective fighters in the world.
Fighter F 16 in the sky over Ukraine: hope for a peaceful future
When the F16 planes will be in Ukraine
With the start of a full-scale war between Russia and Ukraine in 2022, the issue of supplying modern fighter jets to the Armed Forces has become one of the most urgent. The attention of the world community, and especially of all Ukrainians, is focused on an important issue - when the F 16 fighters will reach Ukraine.
During 2023, the United States and other NATO countries carefully studied the possibility and feasibility of transferring the f-16 to Ukraine, weighing all the risks and benefits. US and NATO officials have repeatedly declared their readiness to help Ukraine strengthen its defense capabilities. Currently, there are 50-60 F 16 aircraft. Most likely, Ukraine will receive the F 16 Block 70/72 - the latest version of the fighter with a more powerful radar, new weapons and avionics.
For the successful introduction of modern F-16 aircraft into the Ukrainian Air Force in 2024, retraining of pilots and special training for technicians is ongoing. This process is necessary for strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities and still requires a certain amount of time and resources.
The future of Ukrainian aviation - F16 fighters
Conclusion
Despite the difficulties and challenges, the delivery of these aircraft to Ukraine in 2024 is a strategically important step that will significantly strengthen the country's defense capabilities and help it protect its skies from Russian aggression. Careful planning, clear coordination and international support will help Ukraine overcome all obstacles and successfully introduce the F 16 into its Air Force.
It is important to note that the benefits of supplying F16 aircraft to Ukraine far outweigh the risks. These fighters will become a powerful deterrent against Russian aggression and help Ukraine preserve its freedom and independence.
Answers to common questions
What can F-16?
The F16 is a multi-role fighter aircraft used for air combat, ground attack, reconnaissance and electronic warfare. It can carry a wide range of weapons, including air-to-air, air-to-surface missiles and guided bombs. The fighter has high maneuverability and flight range, which makes it effective both in offensive and defensive operations.
Which countries operate the F-16?
The F16 aircraft is used by the air forces of more than 25 countries around the world. Among the main ones are the United States, where it was developed, as well as such countries as: Turkey, Israel, Egypt, South Korea, Greece and Taiwan. A smaller number of F16 aircraft are located in such countries as: Belgium, Bulgaria, Chile, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Singapore, Thailand, the United States of America and Venezuela.
What types of weapons can the F-16 carry?
The F-16 fighter has nine weapons suspension points: two under the wings (can carry up to 3,700 kg of weapons each), one under the fuselage (can carry up to 1,100 kg of weapons) and six under the wing consoles (can carry up to 570 kg of weapons each) . Optionally, the F16 aircraft can carry the following weapons:
Air-to-air missiles: AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-120 AMRAAM, AIM-7 Sparrow, Python-5
Air-to-surface missiles: AGM-65 Maverick, AGM-88 HARM, AGM-158 JASSM, GBU-15/24/28 Paveway III
Guided bombs: GBU-31 JDAM, GBU-38 JDAM, GBU-54 LGB
Unguided bombs: Mk.82, Mk.83, Mk.84
Cluster bombs: CBU-87 CEM, CBU-97 SFW
Cannon: M61 Vulcan (20mm)
What are the design features of the F-16?
The F16 fighter has a number of design features that make it an effective fighter:
Single-engine layout: The F16 aircraft has a single Pratt & Whitney F100 or F110 turbojet engine. This makes it simpler and cheaper compared to twin-engine fighters.
Pratt & Whitney F100 turbojet engine of f16 aircraft
Integral design: The F-16's wing, fuselage, and tail are seamlessly connected, improving its aerodynamics.
Flat trapezoidal wing: The fighter wing has a trapezoidal shape with a slight extension. This gives him good maneuverability and high flight speed.
Vertical Tail: The F16 has a single vertical tail that provides stability in flight.
Light alloy construction: The F-16 fighter jet is mainly made of aluminum alloys, which makes it light and strong.
Electronic Remote Control System (EPSU): The F-16 aircraft has an EPSU that uses electronic signals to control the steering surfaces. This makes it more maneuverable and accurate than fighters with a traditional mechanical control system.
Bubble Cockpit: The fighter has a bubble-shaped cockpit that provides the pilot with excellent visibility.
On-Board Radar: The aircraft has an on-board radar which is used to detect and track targets.
Infrared Guidance System: The f16 fighter has an infrared guidance system that is used to
tracking targets in the dark.
How many F-16s are in the Netherlands?
As of 30 January 2024, there are 24 F-16 fighter jets still in service in the Netherlands. As the Dutch Air Force is transitioning to the F 35, they no longer need the F 16 fighters. 42 F16 fighters will be transferred to Ukraine: 18 from the Netherlands and 24 from Denmark.
The transfer of F16 aircraft to Ukraine will help it strengthen its air force and better defend itself against Russian aggression.
What are some interesting facts about the F-16?
The F 16 was the first fighter to use the AN/ASQ-17 infrared guidance system. This allows it to track targets in the dark by their heat signatures, making it extremely effective in night combat. The F-16 was also the first fighter to use a fly-by-wire flight control system, where signals from the rudder are transmitted to a computer rather than mechanically, making it more maneuverable, stable and safe, as well as simplifying its design.
How many f16 in Ukraine?
As of January 30, 2024, Ukraine does not officially have a single F 16 fighter.
However, on December 22, 2023, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi announced that Ukraine would receive 42 F-16 fighter jets from NATO countries. 18 of them will be transferred by the Netherlands, and 24 by Denmark. The first planes are expected to arrive in Ukraine in the spring of 2024.
