F-16V 'VIPER' | Fighting Falcon Upgrade

The Lockheed Martin F-16V is the latest and most advanced F-16 on the market today. The F-16V configuration includes numerous enhancements designed to keep the F-16 at the forefront of international security, strengthening its position as the world’s foremost combat-proven 4th Generation multi-role fighter aircraft.
The F-16V, an option for both new production F-16s and F-16 upgrades, is the next generation configuration that leverages a common worldwide sustainment infrastructure and provides significant capability improvements. The F-16V provides advanced combat capabilities in a scalable and affordable package. The core of the F-16V configuration is an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, a modern commercial off-the-shelf (COTS)-based avionics subsystem, a large-format, high-resolution display; and a high-volume, high-speed data bus. Operational capabilities are enhanced through a Link-16 Theater Data Link, Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod, advanced weapons, precision GPS navigation, and the Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System (Auto GCAS).
Northrop Grumman’s advanced APG-83 AESA radar delivers greater situational awareness, flexibility and quicker all-weather targeting. The APG-83 provides pilots with unprecedented target area detail and digital map displays that can be tailored with slew and zoom features. The APG-83 provides F-16s with 5th Generation fighter radar capabilities by leveraging hardware and software commonality with F-22 and F-35 AESA radars.
The APG-83 AESA radar enables greater detection and tracking ranges, multiple target track (20-plus target tracks), high-resolution Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) maps for all-environment precision strike, interleaved air-to-air and air-to-surface mode operations for improved situational awareness, operational effectiveness and survivability; and robust electronic protection for operations in dense radio frequency (RF) environments. The APG-83 also provides greater overall system reliability and availability-three to five times that of legacy MSCAN radars.
Another key feature of the F-16V configuration is the new Center Pedestal Display (CPD), which provides critical tactical imagery to pilots on a high-resolution 6”x 8” screen. The high-resolution display allows Pilot to take full advantage of AESA and Targeting Pod data. The new CPD enables color moving maps, larger and easier to manage air-to-air Situation Displays, zoom functionality with the ability to switch information among displays, and digital display of Flight Instrument Data. The CPD is also compatible with the Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS).
Lockheed Martin successfully completed the maiden flight of the F-16V on October 16, 2015, marking the first time an F-16 had flown with Northrop Grumman’s advanced APG-83 AESA radar. The new radar delivers a quantum leap in capability for the venerable F-16. Northrop Grumman’s APG-83 SABR AESA fire control radar provides 5th Generation air-to-air and air-to-ground radar capability. Northrop Grumman also provides AESA radars for the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II.
Lockheed Martin is more than two years into development of the F-16V and is now in the flight test phase of the program. Customer interest in the F-16V remains strong, particularly now that the program is in its flight test phase-a key milestone for any fighter aircraft development program.
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⛔️ (DISCLAIMER: This video is for informative and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinion come from personal experience and not that of others or other organizations. This content and information is there to provide information from public accessible sources.)
#F16 #viper #fighterjet

[@bryanmchugh1307]

Near 50 years later and the F-16 still kicks arse.

[@rodgerdodger7257]

More like kicking a bucket!🤣😂

[@iTz_JLAR]

Once a lawn Dart, always a lawn Dart

[@rodgerdodger7257]

@@iTz_JLAR always a bucket

[@familyfamily5541]

Kicking chinos ass.?Absolutely no pressures, looking at how chinos copying the aircraft but stuck at engines, it for a laugh. How many engines got burnt, really sicked classless CCP.

[@punctuationman334]

Family Family you can’t even fucking spell, fuck off.

[@redranger1949]

Like the old saying goes " if it aint broke dont fix it " love the F16

[@andrewroy6376]

That's the opposite of what they're doing. Replace instead of fix, is what you should have said.

[@thomasborgsmidt9801]

@@andrewroy6376 No! It is a perfect plane to train an Air Force - like the polish on. Experience in the early years of Nato points to letting a reconstructed air force cut its teeth with something we know works. That was the lesson Erich Hartmann preached to the West German air force after he returned from captivity in Russia in the 1950'ies. He was not listned to - which stopped his carrier. The result was predictable: Their F-104's earned the reputation of being a widowmaker - which was not justified by the technical merits of the plane.

[@MarvelousSeven]

As the US govt does: "if it ain't broke, fix it until it is".

[@RicardoMrMendes]

@@andrewroy6376 f 16 viper block72 , gripen ng are all 70 million a plane for buy cheap to make buy and for maintenance also hum f 35 jsf A is in that price range but not so cheap to maintenance yeah...

[@bestamerica]

hi R R... ' better time to check many times after flyying tooo much

[@cudathehawgjetfixer7520]

The reason the Viper is such a pilots plane is because it was designed by fighter pilots, orginally it was designed as a dog fighter/interceptor but the powers that be wanted a mud mover, so the Vipers where slightly redesigned to fit the requirements, I've worked on the F-16's for 8 years, started on blocks 5' & 10's at Nellis then worked blocks 15's & 20's then block 25's (C's & D's) at Hahn, and ended up with working block 30's (C's & D's) at Buckley. The Vipers was my favorite plane until I was stationed with an A-10 unit, after working Warthogs they where also designed for the maintainers, easy access and repairs there was nothing but a breeze to work on. Out of all the planes I've wrenched on the A-10 is my favorite followed closely by the F-16's.

[@EpochSecutor]

God the Fighting Falcon never fails to look dangerous from all angles. Saw them out in Tucson and they're smaller than I expected. Doesn't make it less menacing though!

[@furaigames6837]

With a service length like that, you could call it the real Millenium Falcon

[@bret9741]

I remember the first f-16 and f-15 flights. I grew up near an Air Force Base. We had about 25000 acres of land (Ranch) in the Mountains of New Mexico. I remember seeing f-15’s, 16’s, 4’s, T-38’s, F-5’s flying through the canyons and mountain passes. Often I’d be rounding up sheep or cattle as find myself watching some kind of dogfight or chase taking place…. Then as quickly as it all pops up….. there gone. Pure adrenaline rush even from the ground.. I have about 6000 hours of flight time. Most in jet turbine and a small portion in Turbo props. If I could go back and fly again... it would be in these aircraft. WW2: P-47D, F4U, and Hellcat. Korea: F-86, A-1.... Vietnam: F-100, F-4, A-1. Gulf War: A-10... f-16. Today...... probably the F-15EX and F-35.

[@Victor-dx2ew]

Glad to see that America is upgrading one of the most legendary fighter jets of all time🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@evanhorn6658]

#Putin/Trumpty 2020

[@kcimb]

Evan Horn putin isn’t American and his administration got kicked out in 2016...

[@mandalorian_guy]

You mean that sexy ass F-15X that can carry and use 22 A2A missiles per sortie.

[@Victor-dx2ew]

@@mandalorian_guy that is another legend

[@beechcraftkingair3799]

Evan Horn TDS is lethal. Find a cure

[@RealestSteve6969]

The F-16 is a plane Ive fanboyed since I was a wee lad.

[@ShadowOppsRC]

Me too!

[@DirectorBird]

All of us have.

[@haninditabudhi6574]

Easy to maintain in terms of expenses and the spare parts. Love this !

[@ruthnoya8424]

While not the F16, you can get a 60 minute ride in an L-39 for $5,600 or a 30 minute ride in a Mig 29 for $15,000.

[@fakecubed]

Man, I really do think the F-22 is the most beautiful fighter plane in the world, but the F-16 is still right up there.

[@darinr9424]

isba good lookin aircraft. just doesnt have to woman like curves or the 16. classic

[@mangar3147]

This has to be a record for most acronyms per minute.

[@lillyanneserrelio2187]

ikr? lol, like omg...slow ur roll, UAE, I

[@Stubbies2003]

Impossible to talk about the F-16 without a ton of acronyms. I was in the USAF and worked on the 16 for 19 years of my 25 total. My buddy and I could talk shop and confuse the hell out of any civilians listening thanks to so many acronyms.

[@pawelski7536]

Unprofessional. He should be spelling it in "Alpha-Bravo-Charlie" format.

[@BerekH]

Way to go Matsimus. Whenever I need to come up to speed on the latest/greatest military technology this is channel where I go. Thanks for keeping us in the loop.

[@mississippirebel1409]

Mat those new AESA radars they are putting the F-16 are no joke and make a HUGE difference, plus all the other sensors. Even thou the radars won't be as good as what you would find in the F-35 or F-22, it is still extremely advanced for a 4th gen fighter. The new sensors and avionics is what is costing so much on these fighters.

[@eurosensazion]

Makes them a 4++ plane. Basically a good system with link 16 and AESA radars close to F-35.

[@ShadowOppsRC]

The advanced censor fusion of avionics is very expensive but gives total sitiational awareness.

[@Stubbies2003]

@@ShadowOppsRC And SA is everything to a pilot.

[@mickeyg7219]

The radar is probably better for the same size, since the APG-83 was developed from the APG-81, but the F-16's nosecone is smaller than the F-35 and F-22's, so it can't fit as many T/R modules.

[@henrikg1388]

Except the new sensors are hanging in the module below the plane where the drop tank usually is. Tells you a lot of how much of a patch job it really is. Although the F-16 have been a huge success story, people should know when they have taken it too far. The only reasons for new purchases are political.

[@Floris_VI]

The f16 is my favorite jet ever made, its so beautiful and functional.

[@nil981]

I'm more of a Saab jas 39 grippen fan. I also am a fan of the su-35 and su-37.

[@theimmortal4718]

She sure is pretty

[@antel704]

F16 represent freedom F16 represent human right F16 represent strong conection with allies F16 is free world F16 is Elvis and John Wayne F16 is free speach F16 is free Eagle not only machine is more and more I am not crazy I know

[@godzillaeatsushi4979]

@@nil981 your just american hater.

[@FortuneZer0]

Me: still waiting on the two variants shown in Patlabor 2.

[@worlds3061]

@KISHANTH JEYAMOORTHY An Anime show

[@gre3nishsinx0Rgold4]

Patlabor is a masterpiece.

[@joaovitorsilvagohl682]

maybe isthe japanese f2

[@jedispartancoolman]

Odd because they clearly reference F15s at some point in that movie but then still call those F15 variants F16s

[@thedungeondelver]

@@jedispartancoolman Well there's a phantom near mid-air with F15-J's when the ADIZ computers get hacked/spoofed, but the plane that hits the bridge with a SLAM-ER is definitely an F16-J. The news was given a faked video showing the "stealth wing" that "only in use by the United States" (or something to that effect). But when the PATLABOR team investigated, a karaoke video editor showed them it'd been doctored. _His_ footage showed an F16-J.

[@colhubbard9348]

The F-16 is hands down my favorite. You did very good coverage of it. I still think the DoD made a huge mistake in not greenlighting the XL, if for nothing else the export market.

[@willymac5036]

The F-16 is small, fast, agile, and can carry a wide range of weaponry. It is a difficult aircraft to overcome no matter what you are flying. A GREAT weapon for Taiwan. With a total of 208 of them, the ROC Air Force will decimate the PLAAF with the F-16V in its squadrons.

[@Invalidar]

Truly an epic fighter. One of my favorite 4th gen fighters. That all around view from the bubble canopy is beautiful.

[@AverageLoner551]

I like how the thumbnail is the F 16 block 72 E purcase program for my county, Cheers from Indonesia.

[@masterofpuppets7295]

It will be interesting to see if Australian f35s will be allowed to train against Indonesian su35s in the future

[@AverageLoner551]

@@masterofpuppets7295 I would pay an extra just to see that lol

[@worlds3061]

@@masterofpuppets7295 I have big respects for Australian Pilots. You guys are badass.

[@truckert9729]

Crazy that the F-16 is still one of the best land based aircraft out there after so long. The first operational unit was at Hill AFB in Utah in 1979. What crazier is I was there being born when they came online lol. I ended up at an ANG unit flying these. Camt remember what block they were, but needless to say we had some stuff there before the rest of the active duty fleet got it. All I can say is we owned the night, nuff said.

[@saltykrug]

Wow, that opening footage of that Falcon has such an awesome camo paint scheme! I really love it.

[@lokai7914]

I love the XL... it's such a shame it did not enter service

[@lokai7914]

@William Halter I know and, from a tactical and strategic perspective, can agree. But the F16XL was gorgeous and could have been a game changer

[@johnvaclavik773]

The xl was not as fast as the F15 E, plus it's cost. The bigger airframe the better tack an additional pilot I'll add up to bigger cost in a single-engine aircraft. Beautiful but no match for the f-15e

[@lokai7914]

@@johnvaclavik773 true... and why it lost. However, the XL came in both single and 2 seater versions... one of which was flown by NASA for many years

[@johnvaclavik773]

@@lokai7914 I can't help but Wonder how upgradable the xl would be today.

[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

@William Halter I would add a variable Inlet for the engine. This would increase efficiency, range and most importantly speed. The F-16 is always had a plane Inlet to reduce cost. I would also look into if you do a new-build f-16xl replacing as many components as possible with carbon fiber. Going to build it new you might as well build-it badass new

[@JG54206]

I find it incredible that all these years later the teen series fighters are all still amazing aircraft. The only one not serving in large numbers anymore is the F14 but in it’s day that was a premier aircraft. The F15, F16, and F18 are all still frontline fighters. I know the Super Hornet is basically a 4.5 gen and was designed/updates much more recently than the 1970’s but all the basic designs from the 1970’s still work well. I just think that’s a testament to the US aerospace industry at the time.

[@karlvongazenberg8398]

Big thumbs up for "Central Europe" from Central Europe.

[@RicardoMrMendes]

Yeah taiwan slovakia and Bahrain are smart

[@RicardoMrMendes]

Block 70 is the best 4,5 gen single engine cust quality combat expericence air platform in the world

[@karlvongazenberg8398]

@@RicardoMrMendes Did I miss the first combat deployment of the F-16V?

[@davidrydl7292]

@@RicardoMrMendes definitely not the best. Gripen is much better.

[@spartanx9293]

@@davidrydl7292 how the F-16 is cheaper has a better radar and in comparison to the Gripen e has a cheaper operating cost

[@8aleph]

I was stationed at Caswell AFB Ft Worth in the mid 70's I was fortunate in seeing the first flight of the F 16 prototype

[@Stubbies2003]

I was fortunate enough to work on it for 19 years. It will always be my favorite fighter.

[@MarvelousSeven]

First intentional flight or the very first flight?

[@pacificrider08]

I like how you talk about updated info and show vids of real aircraft, not your typical computer gamer show, thanks enjoyed this video.

[@billwilber9089]

I worked for some years at Lockheed Martin "Technical Publications" (Tech-pubs) in Fort Worth, TX. Almost all of my work was in "Illustrated Parts Breakdown" (IPB). I enjoyed the work and remember updating books when UAE bought the Block 60 planes (E&F). I also remember making changes to the conformal fuel tanks on the Israeli jets. As other countries bought into the other blocks, we would take another country's books that were similar and update them. One unforgettable time, I went to the production line to review some changes to the emergency power. I sat down in the cockpit seat and immediately got goose bumps… ….What an airplane… My dream was to take a ride in the second seat of a Block 60, F.

[@TimothySielbeck]

Matsimus, you did get one thing wrong. After 45 years it is still "SUPER" sexy!

[@jeffyoung1349]

Been a fan for a while, never commented until now, like what your doing , especially this one, recently unemployed due to current events, but you gave me hope about finding a job in the upgrades of this beautiful bird

[@_Matsimus_]

Thanks so much! Hope it works out for you man!

[@jeffyoung1349]

@@_Matsimus_ you’re the man, thank you 🙏 for your response, it’s hard finding like minded people who care about either history or current events, I’m your new biggest fan

[@muchadoaboutnothing6196]

There’s so much info that I’d suggest you include some charts/graphs or other visuals to keep track, like a chart with all variants and differences among them.

[@AlexSDU]

7:47 This scene reminded me of Michael Caine's line in Battle of Britain. _"How much longer, Ops. The engine's overheating and so am I! Either we stand down, or blow up! Now which do you want?"_

[@Giannis.]

Greece is upgrading 83 f-16s from block 52+ to block 72. So far 13 aircraft have been upgraded and in the future 38 block50s will be upgraded hopefully to block 70 as well. If not, these 38 block50s and 32 block30s will be upgraded with the remaining parts of the block 52s.(as you said)

[@dogetothemoon223]

One of the most if not the most badass multi-role fighters of all time.

[@dogetothemoon223]

@Hammerschlägen M Well, it is a multi-role so although it might not be as successful of an air-to-air like the F-15, it flew some legendary missions. It's sad to hear that you're so uninformed about this plane, yet you pretend to be a fan of it. I'm aware that you're just going to reply that I don't know what I'm talking about because I hurt your ego, etc. So why don't you search for Operation Opera for example.

[@dogetothemoon223]

@Hammerschlägen M Fair enough. I don't know why my last comment didn't post. I didn't get your "according to who" argument. According to many sources. The last time I remember an F-16 scoring an air-to-air kill was when a Turkish F-16 shot down a Russian Su-24 in Syria.

[@dogetothemoon223]

@Hammerschlägen M You too sir.

[@kurousagi8155]

Hammerschlägen M not including the Syrian War, I think the F-16 has shot down 76 enemy aircraft. If I recall correctly, at least two of those were Serbian/Yugoslav MiG-29s. The only air to air loss of an F-16 I can remember was a Turkish F-16 shot down by a Greek Mirage 2000 while it was on training maneuvers. The Greeks denied that an F-16 was shot down.

[@kurousagi8155]

Hammerschlägen M sure. I got it off MiGFlug. Here you go: migflug.com/jetflights/the-combat-statistics-for-all-the-aircraft-currently-in-use/ The two MiG-29 downings was just me randomly checking the statistics. I saw that the F-16 had shoot down victories in the Yugoslav wars, so I checked those out.

[@phoenixbird2078]

Morocco got 48 units of this beauty! Ready to kick asses

[@timothygauthier7589]

There’s nothing like busting through the clouds on a crappy day and seeing blue skies forever. You can raise the seat so the canopy rails are just above your waist. Feels like flying in a glass bubble.

[@Xer0280]

Glad to see that my favorite fighter jet (tied with the F 14) will be in service for so long. Its so simple but it looks so good

[@ThatOldGamerGuy0368]

The A-10C is also getting a new upgrade including a new datlink and a radar. The Viper and A-10 are my 2 favorite aircraft.

[@johnpatz8395]

I've always like the look of the F16, but in the dark pain schemes shown it's even hotter!

[@theimmortal4718]

Amazing plane. She's still beautiful to this day

[@wensen532]

Hi, the F-16v BLK 70/72 fighter, Taiwan 🇹🇼 buys new 66’s. Don’t forget. Thanks US to help. Comes! Cheers! Wishes we will work together happily.

[@kennethconnors5316]

this F16 is a contender , absolutely astounding performance

[@Rentta]

We can partly thank IAF for keeping F-16 up to date

[@graeme3023]

What's up buddy? Hope you have a great 2020!! Airborne forever!!

[@comissar]

Gorgeous bird! Actually flying the CM Block 50 on DCS and loving it. Keep doing this military review videos Mat, they are great. Happy new year and greetings from Spain.

[@Stubbies2003]

I'm waiting for the DCS module to get more work in on it. TIll then I'm enjoying the F/A-18C quite a bit in DCS. :)

[@greenberret60]

Lockheed Martin and American defense industry as a whole are intellectually and strategically perhaps the best minds ever. They are always looking 5 decades ahead if not more or less

[@firatsanliturk]

we simply love F-16s. It bombs, it dogfights, it scouts, spies, basically does everything you ask from it.

[@irinatsougia6093]

And gets kicked in the ass by yunan M2000

[@attilathenun]

All environment, all roles, all weather and always deadly.

[@tritarch6687]

The F-16, F-22, F-14 and SU-27 are by the far the best looking planes (in that order) ever made IMO.

[@marbleman52]

I was in a U.S. Navy aviation squadron back in 1971-75. I was at one of Florida's Naval Air Stations with some of our aircraft for some war exercises when the Shah of Iran( our ally back then ) made a visit to buy some of the new F-16's which put on a show for him. The base was closed off for his visit and security was tight, even for us who were there with our planes, and we were not allowed to get close to the runway. But my buddy and I had our 35mm cameras and we were still able to get within a block of the airstrip and get some good pictures of the F-16's doing touch & go's. We felt like spies...LOL..!!

[@johnvaclavik773]

The F16 xl is super sexy. Some really good vintage videos out there.

[@aaronseet2738]

F-16 is arguably the sexiest plane of all time. I know it's function over form, but the CFTs and avionics spine make it look like an overburdened rhinoceros.

[@patrolpilot3756]

Old, forgotten, but FAR from obsolete. Love this plane.

[@jacksavage4098]

What a great aircraft. The F-22 is gone and the F-35 needs help. Keep the F-16 flying.

[@a-10thunderboltii24]

Luckily the 22 isn’t actually gone

[@eurosensazion]

Still kicks ass and advancing existing fleet to block 70/72 is super smart and cost effective. By US air force and other air forces like Greece which is upgrading 85 Block 52+Advance. Within their budget till they can get a squadron of F-35's as well. F-16 proven to be the plane of choice.

[@yolakin8210]

This beauty will be flying around for another 20 years.

[@teddy.d174]

Incredible video Matsimus! 👍🏻👍🏻

[@thomasborgsmidt9801]

Another thing about service life and wear/tear: If you know what you are doing - from a maintainance point of view - you let the first aircrafts take a disproportional amount of use, so as to be warned if problems crop up with the amount of flight hours. When you update - you update the newest fighters first giving those airframes a disproportionately high rest life. Denmark has - over the years recieved about 65 airframes - some have been lost in accidents other have been plainly worn out and relegated to the spares box. But today officially there are 30 aircraft in 2 squadrons - and perhaps two flights in still serviceable aircraft that are not updated: Among them the airframe that has been painted with the Danish flag. (why not taunt the bad guys when it only costs a dollop of paint). And these aircraft are perfectly well suited to Air Policing Missions: Noting keeps hotheads calmer than showing them a well worn truncheon. I guess they are now used in the enhanced forward presence in the Baltic. It furthermore is a smart idea, if the numbsculls should make a surprise attack and destroy them on the ground - one mission they at least can perform to total satisfaction is the one as decoys. Same philosophy as your 105 mm guns placed way forward in storage. If the enemy has to bend something - then for Gods sake make it something cheap. The personel is under training for the updated replacement in Canada - anyway. I still think the 105 should be put on a LAV chassis - but that is just me talking out of an unauthorised opening. But I digress: The F-16 (even the older models) still have a great future ahead of them - personally (again that is just me) I think Denmark will keep a squadron of F-16's well into the 2030'ies. After the Typhoons have entered service (no they have not officially been ordered: The suppliers are still under some misconception as to the relevant market price of their product is). The fun part of it is: The americans seem to slowly realise where their true interests lie - politicians are notorious dimwitted as to the relevance of their opinions relative to the laws of physics and practical show floor reality. Our american "ambassador" whose main qualidication is a degree in chiropractics: I mean: The relevance of that training could be relevant as to getting in and out of older tanks, but otherwise .....

[@MultiCheapguy]

I like the paint scheme on the 1st F-16

[@graeme3023]

Me too...

[@trespire]

Check out the camo. scheme at 6:00

[@graeme3023]

@@trespire that looks like the camo scheme a lot of Arab countries use... ive seen Iraqi planes with that camo paint job before, I'm sure.

[@ensirinsey6871]

@@trespire Thats an Israeli f16

[@graeme3023]

@@ensirinsey6871 It seems like a common camo scheme in Middle Eastern countries air forces. I've seen it on several countries planes...

[@KnEpH131]

In my mind the most beautiful jet the US has ever made.

[@tjololot3761]

Greece has already started modernizing 84 of it's total 154 F-16s fleet into Viper (Block 70) level with a APG-83 AESA radar......the mighty F-16 will continue to be HAF''s backbone for many years to come....

[@dannyjr831]

The F16 is my second favorite jet behind the Navy's F14 Tomcat and the F18 Super Hornet!!

[@randomworld4662]

One othe most popular aircraft in aircraft history!

[@permafrostinsanity1799]

Happy New Years, Matsimus! 2020. Love your military videos.

[@HEATER_]

This guy said A LOT of words. None of which I can recall at the moment.

[@etherealessence]

Anything that keeps this gorgeous bird in the sky is worth it imo.

[@cameronmoore7675]

Most people: Sweet. An updated F-16. Ace Combat fans: FINALLY, an F-16 with decent stats!

[@harryt2284]

I love the F-22 Raptor, looks so goddamn cool.

[@warrensmith2902]

Of all the Fighter Jets (beside the F-86), I have always wanted to fly the F16. It just looks right as a fighter.

[@thomasborgsmidt9801]

Matsimus: An inspirational video. What caught my attention was how well the F-16 sells in the "new" Nato members - Slovakia and Bulgaria was mentioned. The problem is not so much the F-16 is not a good aircraft - it is: Compared to F-35 and Typhoon it is so cheap to operate - though compared to tanks they are bloody expensive. No it is: The world has changed and the F-16 is to small for the major users in Europe. The front line has moved 4-500 nautical miles east - which Russia absolutely hates. Today the F-16 maintains its role as the first line of airborne defence. Let's be honest: Russia has not in the past 30 years come up with anything that can really challenge the F-16 - nothing that upgrades hasn't been able to keep pace with. Is the F-16 destroying the sales of F-35? No not really! The F-16 has a combat range of approximately 300 nm and the F-35 has about 650 nm (maybe a bit more) - that is about 2½ more range for the F-35. That compared to a ratio in empty weight of 1½ times. There is a considerable advantage of not having to land to refuel. What people forget about the F-35 and its maneuvre capability is: But the time it gets to the knife fight it has shed about 4 tons of fuel, whereas the F-16 is only 1½ tons lighter.

[@AriefMamoerRiawan]

On paper, Russia has made its MiGs (29M, 35) for F-16s competitor, although it is more expensive on Cost Fly/Hour which F-16 expensive to buy (Block 50+). F-16 Block 50+ is more advanced as well, it has lots of upgrades and modifications.

[@keirfarnum6811]

Thomas Borgsmidt I always wondered about the F35 fuel capacity and how that would affect fly ability. Thanks.

[@littlerascal2753]

bet all those pilots just LOVED lining up for that video/picture!!!

[@Cptnbond]

Not a bad design, and still being successful in some markets. You correctly pointed out that many countries value the USA relation, read kind of 'implied safety guarantee' - at least as perceived by the buyer, that comes with the purchase. Cheers.

[@MartinCHorowitz]

I have fond memories of walking the F16 Fort Worth production line while there on visits.

[@williammorales3871]

My favorite Air Craft. I’m Air Force 1973-1977 I worked with F106 Delta Planes. B52 T38🥰🙏🌈❤️🍻🍻🇱🇷🌅

[@vladolubenov9484]

... waiting for them (Block 70/72) in Bulgaria ;-)

[@stupidburp]

The upgrade makes a great dogfighter better. The future is moving towards longer range combat though. This favors stealth fighters and large fighters with big radars and large weapon loads.

[@invertedv12powerhouse77]

Which this thing is not. But this is a heavily exported fighter, for many of these countries their targets are not that far away and cheaper, well performing aircraft for self defense makes way more sense

[@stupidburp]

@@invertedv12powerhouse77 Yes, it is a reliable platform at an attractive cost for militaries on a smaller budget.

[@BerekH]

We agree: F-22 and F-16 = 2 most beautiful aircraft flying today. It has been said that in the hands of the right pilot the F-16 can go head-to-head with anything in the air. Amen! :)

[@merlin5by533]

Ok, so the F-16 is beautiful, fast, deadly, and good at what it does. Oh never mind, I can't really go anywhere past that.

[@AnthonyEvelyn]

Haha what a coincidence. Just played through all the campaigns of Novalogic's F-16 MRF during the holidays.

[@test-qz4dq]

Sir, Thank you for your Service!

[@giatiexwkanali2750]

My country (Greece) is upgrading all of it's outdated F-16s to the superior Viper version

[@therocinante3443]

Boy how I wish we had the block 70 in DCS. The block 52 is awesome, but is completely eclipsed (as far as systems) by the JF-17 in DCS.

[@TheKeithvidz]

1st vid this year - love this jet.

[@redmeat2ndamendment695]

Lockheed also offered the block 70 to Colombia. That would be a game changer in that region.

[@markbrisec3972]

Just 2 days ago Croatia announced the winner of its program to replace the ancient MiG - 21s. Being a member of NATO alliance, flying these old decrepit Soviet era fighter jets was a big problem for the country. There were to bidders for the contract for 12 aircraft with training, spare parts and a certain number of weapons. US offered 12 brand new F-16Vs while the other offer was from France and included used Rafale aircraft, upgraded to the latest F3R configuration. All of the Rafales were between 8-10 years old... Dassault won the contract with Rafale fighter jets by offering an incredibly fair price of 990 million euros for the whole package. Lockheed's offer was much more expensive, the cost was around 3 billion $.. To cut the long story short NATO alliance got a formidable upgrade in air power on it's volatile eastern borders while Croatian pilots finally got an opportunity to fly advanced generation 4+ multirole aircraft that comes in top 5 best 4th gen fighters in the world. But Americans don't need to cry fault, Croatian Army is buying Bradley IFVs to equip a modern armored strike battalion. Also old Soviet era MI-24 helicopters are soon to be replaced by the batch of the Black Hawks..

[@MZ-bl6wg]

One of the most skilled fighter pilots in the world , a US fighter pilot that’s flown the F16, F15x, F18, the F35 AND F22 and now is a contractor training pilot flying all over the world to word militaries interestingly on both sides, doing a lot of US training, NATO training, but had also trained Russian pilots , Indian Pilots , and on and on . With his skill and ability he is contracted to train militaries as one of the most skilled pilots always playing the enemy role but a far advanced pilot to traditional pilots leaving combat often flying less capable aircraft as an enemy but he provides an advanced enemy training scenario where militaries will contract with other counties that have the countries top fighters giving too pilots the ability to train against one of the best in the world in the best enemy aircraft needed. I found it interesting that he somehow was able to pilot an F22 Raptor in some training which seems impossible. Anyway my point is, this pilot considered by many to be one of the current best active fighter pilots in the world in this interview was asked who and what was the most skilled pilot he’s ever taught in simulated combat. I thought maybe one of Russia’s best or maybe a US pilot in a new fighter but he said immediately without thinking, Israel’s best pilot correctly in their latest block F16!!?? He surprised the podcast host that actually started debating him lol but he maintained that one of the best pilots on earth in the latest F16 block was THE most dangerous pilot /jet combo he’s ever fought. Regardless of whether people agree, he IS considered one of the best in the world and trains either nearly every Air Force on the planet so I’d consider him an expert and trust his no delay answer. Ever since hearing that I’ve had so much more respect for the F-16 that is becoming outdated.

[@dilligafdude9434]

That arctic camo on that Alaskan Viper in the intro is my favorite. 3:05 GONKY?! Looks like CW Lemoine's buddy on the left

[@ericb.4358]

The F-16 is a beautiful fighter in the truest sense of fighter jet.

[@trey1531]

You have good taste in fighters.

[@jamesbugbee6812]

Morocco is stepping up out of the groundhaze- I'll have 2 look up their navy. A nice pic of a '16 in Polack markings would B beautiful, no doubt 💜.

[@makangarudastudio]

Keep up the good work ...

[@Ghost63123]

One of the best looking planes ever built.

[@hermespsychopompos8267]

In Greece we already upgaded the first F16 from block 52 to 70 and now is in USA for certification. Along with our new Rafal planes and later F35s, we will keep the F16s block 70, too. 84 in number will become block 70.

[@JStefanA]

The F-16 and the Gripen we're short listed for the Philippines Air Force MRF Acquisition. Looks like the F-16 will win.

[@MrLapidary]

The SSD-1 was upgraded to the DDS system in order for the ABC/ZZ-2 to operate at maximum. The HTV radar was replaced with the CVF Mark-7. The GTR, which was originally the BMY, was liquid cooled, so they could target anything not them. The FF2V was later installed which changed the designation to F-16U-V 2A1. Later in the production, it was found that if you added water to the whole system, pilots were able to eat their aircraft as alphabet soup.

[@JAMESMARCALLINUS]

Congratulations for RADARS UPGRADE 0:37

[@arashizou2934]

In 2018 Morocco's F-16 Block 52 scored 5-1 win over Spanish Eurofighters during Exercise Atlas 2018.

[@Stubbies2003]

Well that right there you can chalk up to pilot skills as the Eurofighter is one hell of a 4th gen fighter.

[@Jdmlsturbo]

You reallllly need to do a Video on the YF 23, both the grey ghost,& Black Widow.

[@NotThatBob]

Amazing fighter. USA truly does develop some amazing aircraft.

[@andershenriksen6997]

To me these planes are so elegant - beautiful!

[@danielwiltse8816]

The US should buy a shit ton of these

[@allenlibranda7527]

The Phil Air Force is also Getting these Birds. Our Pilots are now in the US to Train with these Birds. The only way that that can stop the PhAF from getting these is either not getting enough Funds or if they Decided to go for the JAS-39 C/D.

[@michaelkranyak4525]

The ChiComs are stealing your fish under your eyes.

[@allenlibranda7527]

@@michaelkranyak4525 Yup we know, and we cannot do anything about it. Our President is a Chicoms Puppy.

[@robertbania232]

After 45 years F-16 is still very good and cool looking jet ...