F-16: News

Now that the purchase of Danish F-16 aircraft for Argentina has been confirmed, news on this topic can be published here.

Denmark to sell fighter jets to Argentina following US approval
Milei government signs letter of intent with Denmark, agrees to buy 24 F-16 fighter jets in “coming years” at a cost of around US$300 million.


Defence Minister Luis Petri, met with his Danish counterpart, Troels Lund Poulsen, in Buenos Aires to finalise the purchase agreement of 24 F-16 fighter jets for Argentina. | Defence Ministry


Denmark will sell 24 of its F-16 warplanes to Argentina for an estimated cost of 2.1 billion kroner (US$303 million) after receiving approval from the United States.

Argentina's Defence Minister Luis Petri on Tuesday signed a letter of intent to buy the 24 jets with his Danish counterpart Troels Lund Poulsen in Buenos Aires.

"We received the visit of the Danish Minister of Defence, Troels Lund Poulsen, with whom we signed a letter of intent for the purchase of F-16 aircraft and support equipment. We are laying the foundation for cooperation in defence between Denmark, the US and Argentina," said Petri in a post on Twitter.

The purchase, which also includes engines, spare parts, simulators and training equipment, is the first major defence purchase made by President Javier Milei’s government since the Argentine head of state took office last December.

Delivery of the F-16 planes to Argentina is expected within “the coming years,” Denmark’s Defence Ministry said in an emailed statement. The sale of the US-produced jets has been agreed in “close coordination” with the US government, which has cleared the deal, it added.

Despite sharp austerity measures, Milei has also pledged to revamp Argentina’s military defences even though the country historically takes a neutral stance during global conflicts.

The purchase aligns with Milei’s commitment to pivot Argentina’s relations toward the United States and western Europe after his predecessor prioritised relations with China and Russia.

Reports in recent years have suggested that Buenos Aires would buy new jets from China or India.

The deal suits Denmark. The Nordic country, which is also donating 19 F-16 planes to Ukraine, is replacing its existing fleet with F-35 jets, though delivery of the new warplanes is facing delays due to technology hurdles at producer Lockheed Martin Corp.

"Danish defence is in the midst of a generational change process, in which our F-16 aircraft are being phased out in favour of the new F-35 fighters," Lund Poulsen confirmed in a statement.



– TIMES/BLOOMBERG/AFP

https://www.batimes.com.ar/news/economy/denmark-to-sell-fighter-jets-to-argentina-following-us-approval.phtml

Argentina to buy surplus F-16 jets from Denmark
By José Higuera

A Royal Danish Air Force F-16A Fighting Falcon flies beside a B-52H Stratofortress bomber on Aug. 28, 2020. (Master Sgt. Burt Traynor/U.S. Air Force)



SANTIAGO, Chile — Argentina has signed an agreement to buy 24 surplus F-16 fighter jets from Denmark.

Denmark is replacing its F-16 fleet with new F-35 jets, both of which are made by the American company Lockheed Martin.

Argentine Defense Minister Luis Petri and his Danish counterpart Troels Lund Poulsen signed a letter of intent for the sale in Buenos Aires on March 26. The U.S. ambassador to Argentina, Marc Stanley, attended the event.

“Denmark is donating 19 F-16 jets to Ukraine, and the government has decided to sell 24 Danish F-16 jets to Argentina,” Lund Poulsen said in a statement, describing the transaction as a “possible sale.”

“The decision to sell the Danish jets to Argentina has been carried out in close collaboration with the American government, who has approved the sale of the US produced aircrafts,” the Danish Defence Ministry noted in the statement.

Local military sources in Buenos Aires, speaking to Defense News on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of military deals, said Argentina will pay $320 million for the acquisition. They also said banks and the U.S. will provide loans to help finance the deal, which not only includes the aircraft but also weapon systems and other equipment made by U.S. businesses. Denmark is also set to provide simulators and a spares.

Those sources added that the final contract will be signed by the end of April in Copenhagen.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency will manage the sale and transfer of weapon systems such as AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles, under the Pentagon’s Foreign Military Sales program.

Denmark’s Acquisition and Logistics Organisation will handle the transfer of surplus F-16s, while the Argentine military’s logistics directorate will surpervise the procurement process.

Negotiations for the deal, which began under Argentina’s previous government led by then-President Alberto Fernandez, also considered the procurement of newly built Chinese/Pakistani-made JF-17 fighter jets.

The potential acquisition of the JF-17 was rejected over concerns it could jeopardize relations with the U.S. military.

https://www.defensenews.com/air/2024/03/29/argentina-to-buy-surplus-f-16-jets-from-denmark/

Argentina Finalizes Purchase of F-16 Aircraft from Denmark


16 de abril de 2024 - 04:38




In a significant step towards modernization and recovery of its military capabilities, Argentina signed the purchase of a fleet of 24 F-16 A/B Fighting Falcon combat aircraft from Denmark, marking a historic milestone in the renewal of its Air Force, which once again has supersonic capability.

The announcement was made by the Argentine Minister of Defense, Luis Petri, who traveled to the Nordic country to sign the acquisition contract. The Argentine president, Javier Milei, participated in the event remotely.

«In Denmark, we are about to change the generation of our fleet of combat aircraft with new F-35 planes. Therefore, I am very pleased that the Danish F-16 aircraft, which have served us well over the years and have been thoroughly maintained and technologically updated, are now being used in the Argentine Air Force. With the agreement, we strengthen defense cooperation between Denmark and Argentina, while Argentina becomes part of the global F-16 family,» said Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen.

«In terms of trade, we have had exemplary cooperation both with the Argentine Air Force and with the Argentine and the United States governments. With trade, we also strengthen our defense cooperation with the U.S.,» he added.

A lengthy process, excessively long

The acquisition of the F-16s is the result of a long process of analysis and negotiations that began almost a decade ago. After the decommissioning of the Mirage-Dagger in 2015, the FAA (Argentine Air Force) began to evaluate various options to modernize its fleet, considering factors such as cost, performance, and availability. In 2023, the United States finally gave the green light for the sale of F-16s to Argentina, paving the way for the completion of the purchase.

Left by the wayside, for technical, economic, and political reasons, were offers from Spain for the Mirage F-1, IAI Kfir from Israel, the Russian MiG-35 (which never received serious consideration by the FAA), the KAI FA-50 from South Korea, Mirage-2000 from France, the Sino-Pakistani option for the JF-17 Block III Thunder, and India’s offer for the HAL Tejas Mk1A. A real parade of combat aircraft that only served to generate illusion, and ultimately, frustration.

A qualitative leap for the Argentine Air Force

Finally, the North American offer for the F-16 A/B fighters from the Royal Danish Air Force (Flyvevaben or RDAF), which are being decommissioned, replaced in their functions by the modern Lockheed Martin F-35A, prevailed. The first F-16s arrived in Denmark in 1980, locally assembled by the national aerospace company SABCA, acquiring 77 units of different blocks in successive purchases.

Despite the age of the material, the aircraft were subject to routine mid-life update and modernization works (MLU), which allowed their electronics and armament capability to be matched with the modern F-16 blocks 50/52, representing a significant qualitative leap in capabilities for the Argentine Air Force.

These combat aircraft will allow the FAA to:

Improve interception capability, thanks to its supersonic speed and great acceleration.
The Air Force acquires beyond visual range (BVR) combat capability.
For the first time, the FAA will have precision-guided munitions for air-to-ground missions.
Allow greater integration with the sister Chilean Air Force (FACh), which has operated the F-16 for years, while promoting regional stability through capability parity.
Overall, the incorporation of the F-16s will mean a very relevant injection of technology for the FAA, being its first fourth-generation combat aircraft.

What does the purchase include?

Reliable sources told Aviacionline that the acquisition contract for the F-16 MLU fighters includes the purchase of modern air-to-air and air-to-surface weaponry, as well as spare parts, training, peripherals, etc.

The negotiated weapon package would include:

Air-to-air missiles AIM-120 AMRAAM with a 120 km range, possibly the C-7 version.
Short-range air-to-air missiles AIM-9M Sidewinder (already operated by the FAA in small numbers in its A-4AR).
Air-to-surface missile AGM-65 Maverick.
Cluster bombs CBU-99/100.
INS/GPS-guided bombs GBU-31 JDAM.
Laser-guided bombs GBU-10 (2,000 pounds) and GBU-12 (500 pounds) Paveway II.
Glide bombs GBU-39 SDB.
Anti-radiation air-to-surface missiles AGM-88 HARM.

The contract also includes that the F-16s come equipped with targeting and reconnaissance pods; self-protection and electronic warfare systems; Joint helmet mounted cueing system (JHMCS) vision targeting helmets; eight spare engines, training missiles, tools, rotables, and spare parts.

We also learned that, according to the planned schedule, the first four F16B two-seaters and two F-16A single-seaters will arrive in Argentina in 2025. The deliveries will be completed by 2028. The home base for the aircraft will be the VI Air Brigade in Tandil, and maintenance will be performed at the Río Cuarto Material Area.

https://www.aviacionline.com/argentina-finalizes-purchase-of-f-16-aircraft-from-denmark

Petri hails Milei's leadership as he inks deal for F-16 jets in Denmark

Argentina’s Defence Minister offers gushing praise for President Javier Milei as he visits a Danish air base to finalise future purchase of 24 F-16 fighter jets from Denmark.


Argentina's Defence Minister Luis Alfonso Petri, Denmark's Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen and other delegation members pose in front of one of the F-16 planes Argentina is buying from Denmark during a press event at Skrydstrup Air Base, Denmark, on April 16, 2024. | Bo Amstrup / Ritzau Scanpix / AFP


Denmark on Tuesday confirmed the future delivery of 24 F-16 fighter jets to Argentina as the two nations inked a previously trailed defence deal at a Danish air base.

Defence Minister Luis Petri flew to Copenhagen and travelled to the Skrydstrup air base in Denmark to see the jets and sign the deal. Last month, he signed a letter of intent with his Danish counterpart Troels Lund Poulsen for the US$300- million purchase of the planes.

President Javier Milei was set to join Petri in Denmark but the Argentine head of state cut short an international trip last week. Travelling back from the United States back to Argentina, the libertarian leader set up a crisis committee following Iran’s attack on Israel.

Instead, Milei joined Tuesday’s event via videolink, during which he was roundly praised by Petri for “leading Argentina out of decades of decadence.”

Milei “is taking the flags of freedom to all corners of the world," declared Petri during a brief ceremony, claiming that the Danish deal provided proof of this.

"You are moving the country forward," the official gushed to the head of state, conveying the thanks of the Armed Forces.

"Dear Luis, this task we are carrying out is only possible because I am accompanied by a great Cabinet with great people, great human beings and extremely talented," responded Milei.



Danish modernisation

Denmark is in the process of upgrading its fleet to the more modern F-35, and has around forty F-16s, of which around 30 are in operation, according to Danish media.

The country has also committed to supplying an unspecified number of aircraft of this type to Ukraine, and has begun training Ukrainian pilots.

"I am very pleased that the Danish F-16s, which have served us well over the years and have been thoroughly maintained and technologically updated, will now benefit Argentina's air force," Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said in a statement.

Previously, the Danish Defence Ministry has valued the deal – which also includes engines, spare parts, simulators and training equipment – at around 2.1 billion kroner (US$300 million).

No delivery date has been announced, but it is expected to take place in the next few years and the deal has been approved by the United States, where the F-16s are built.

Milei, who took office last December, considers Washington to be a natural ally.

In recent years, media reports mentioned offers from China and India as potential collaborators in a bid to rehaul Argentina’s Air Force, which in 2017 parted with the last of its French-made Mirage aircraft after four decades of service.



Argentine spending

Argentina says that the fighter jets will be the backbone of its air defence system for decades to come. Nevertheless, the defence spending has been criticised by opponents, who see severe austerity enforced on other sectors of the economy.

The La Libertad Avanza government says it wants to “promote investment in defence with the aim of strengthening capabilities.”

"We are completing the most important military aeronautical acquisition since 1983. These are 24 F-16 aircraft that have been modernised and equipped with the best technology," Petri said during his speech in Denmark.

"With these new aircraft we are taking a transcendental step in our defence policy, recovering the supersonic capacity of our aviation and achieving the definitive entry of our Air Force into the technological challenges of the 21st century," said the official, proclaiming that the country had begun to "recover its air sovereignty.”

After the ceremony, Petri colourfully declaring that “Argentines once again have the forces of heaven to protect us."



– TIMES/AFP/NA

https://www.batimes.com.ar/news/argentina/petri-hails-mileis-leadership-as-he-inks-fighter-jet-deal-with-denmark.phtml

Argentine Air Force Takes Delivery of First Ex-Danish F-16 Jet

Rojoef Manuel December 19, 2024


Argentine Air Force's first Ex-Danish F-16 jet. Photo: Argentine Ministry of Defense

The Argentine Air Force has received the first of 24 F-16B Fighting Falcon combat aircraft from Denmark as part of a contract signed in April.

The delivery aligns with Copenhagen’s strategy to support the aerial capabilities of the non-NATO South American ally as it transitions to the F-35 fifth-generation military aircraft.

It departed from Aalborg Air Base in Vadum via a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft to El Palomar in Buenos Aires, where it will be sent to Tandil Air Base for assembly.

Local news agency Pucará Defensa reported that the jet’s engine, spare parts, and tools had already been handed over a week prior to the fuselage’s arrival.

“The F-16 marks a before and after in Defense, redefining Argentine air power,” the Argentine Ministry of Defense said in a social media update.

“With its advanced technology, combat versatility and supersonic capacity, the F-16 becomes the backbone of the Argentine air defense system, to protect our sovereignty against the threats of the 21st century.”

Strengthening Danish-Argentine Relationship


Denmark and Fighting Falcon developer the US offered the F-16 for Argentina’s ongoing military aircraft expansion in October 2023, countering China’s offer of its Sino-Pakistani JF-17 Thunder platform.

In March 2024, the Nordic country formalized its plan to sell its F-16 fleet to Buenos Aires, and by April, a contract was signed to transfer the planes to the Argentine Air Force.

In November, the US State Department then approved the $941-million sale of aircraft equipment, logistics, and program support to aid the integration of the ex-Danish F-16s into Argentina’s military.

“I am incredibly proud on behalf of the Danish Armed Forces and especially on behalf of [Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation] that we have been able to conclude this agreement with Argentina,” Danish Defence Acquisition and Logistics’ Col. Klaus Qvist remarked during the recent F-16 handover to Argentina.

“It shows that we are thinking strategically in connection with the phasing out of the F-16, while at the same time being able to make money from the sale and support an important partner in building a fighter aircraft capacity. It is a huge success for all parties.”

The F-16 Fighting Falcon


Developed by Lockheed Martin, the F-16 has a top speed of Mach 2 (1,535 miles/2,470 kilometers per hour) and is armed with laser-guided, unguided, cluster, and nuclear bombs, machine guns, and multi-domain missiles.

It is equipped with a General Electric or Pratt & Whitney engine, depending on its configuration, with about 7,000 pounds (3,175 kilograms) internal fuel capacity.

The aircraft can be flown at altitudes up to 50,000 feet (15,240 meters) and a range of 2,277 nautical miles (2,620 miles/4,217 kilometers).

https://thedefensepost.com/2024/12/19/argentina-denmark-f16/

WE HAVE THE FIRST F-16 IN ARGENTINA! Today, the C-130 of the
@FuerzaAerea_Arg
landed in El Palomar with the fuselage on board, and continued on to Tandil to begin assembly. Great news for our defense and a source of pride for all Argentines.



https://x.com/MinDefensa_Ar/status/1868438563077206484

Beyond personal tastes, this news shows that right-wing liberal governments buy more weapons than left-wing liberals.
The past governments of Néstor Kirchner / Cristina Kirchner / Alberto Fernández had a somewhat anti-imperialist discourse, but they never broke with Western dependence on weapons.
Macri brought the modernized Super Etendard and now Milei brings the F-16. Apart from continuing with the modernization of the TAM tanks with Israeli technology.
Despite the Malvinas War, there is a large sector of the Power that remains allied with the Anglo-Saxons.

Zelensky crying in its office right now... ukro f-16 sent to Argentina.

Isos wrote:Zelensky crying in its office right now... ukro f-16 sent to Argentina.

Well if Argentina is paying, I understand there is a difference.

Anyway these are 44 years old planes, any mig29 SMT would be better than this crap.

But yeah, at least they are generation 4 airplanes.

Chinese are crying too since they had been dreaming of selling the crapy JF-17 and even a whole production line.
Now they can keep mocking and insulting Argentina as usual about how a developed country devolved into a developing country.
And the frequency has been raised from once a month to once a week after Milei in the office...

Well... must admit Argentina is a shithole. US probably corrupted some guys to not buy chinese.

GarryB wrote:Has there been any comment from the UK government over this?

Yes indeed..very strange. In the past they had reacted even for fighters of lower quality than F-16

They don't need to bribe, there are local sepoys, who lick Anglo-Saxon boots, for free.

F-16 MLU

Mid-Life Update

F-16 Versions main menu

History / The beginning

Reason for the Mid Life Update




The first RDAF F-16B MLU (#ET-204), wearing the Check Six markings on its tail, on touchdown. [LMTAS photo]




When the F-16 entered service in 1979, it was expected that the aircraft would be replaced by a successor in 1999. Due to several reasons, both economical and political, the F-16 will not be replaced by a successor (which is not yet available right now) and will not be phased-out until 2010. In order to maintain the same level of operational capabilities and operational effectiveness of existing aircraft over the next ten to twenty years in this world of ever increasing technology, an extensive modernization program was developed, that later became known as the Mid-Life Update or MLU.


The first RDAF F-16B MLU, wearing the Check Six markings on its tail, on touchdown. (LMTAS photo)


The project started in 1989 with a two year study of the possibilities to upgrade the F-16. In May 1991, the development phase started, which continued until 1997.

Aircraft structural integrity program
The F-16s airframe has been subject to more heavy loads than was predicted in 1979. This resulted in several unpredicted hair cracks in some of the airframe's bulkheads. Before an aircraft can be offered for MLU modification, the current state of the airframe is examined in the extensive Aircraft Structural Integrity Program (PACER SLIP). In this modification program, all bulkheads of the aircraft will be examined and repaired (using the so called Cold Working method) if necessary. After PACER SLIP, the aircraft will be able to last at least another 5,000 flying hours and can complete its life expectancy of 30 years.

Note that hair cracks are not uncommon in aircraft design. To predict the acceptable number and type of cracks, the aircraft manufacturer used information that reflected the exact capabilities of the aircraft. The F-16 was designed as a light and highly maneuverable aircraft that could withstand 9G and last for a minimum of 8,000 flight hours. All data is recorded in a load spectrum that specifies the use of the aircraft (i.e. type of missions), aircraft load and predicted number of landings.

Participating countries
At first five countries participated in the Mid Life Update; the four EPAF (European Participating Forces) countries: Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands and Norway, as well as the United States. Each of the countries has one Lead The Fleet (LTF) F-16 at the Lockheed-Martin plant in Fort Worth, Texas, as a trial aircraft for the modification. At the start of the program, it was projected that the USAF would also convert about 223 A/B-models under the MLU program. With the ending of the Cold War however, this part of the program was finished and the US backed-out after the development program.

In 2001, Portugal announced that it too was considering upgrading its acquired with MLU. The Portuguese program started at the end of 2002, with the first aircraft (LTF) being delivered in early 2003. First 16 A-models and 4 B-models of the Peace Atlantis II program will be upgraded. Followed later on by the other 20 F-16s.

In 2005, Jordan was the following country to decide to upgrade their F-16s with the MLU package. Although their jets already had some upgrades since they were of the ADF version, Jordan decided this wasn't sufficient to maintain in the long run. In a first phase all Peace Falcon II airframes (which hadn't flown awaiting the MLU upgrade) were to be upgraded with all Peace Falcon I airframes to be added later. The first jet was delvered back to the RJAF in 2007.

In 2010 Pakistan also joined the MLU group. It decided to upgrade 35 of its older block 15 airframes with an option for another 10. The first airframe to be converted was test flown in November of 2011 with initial work being performed by Lockheed, while the remainder of the fleet is to be upgraded by TAI in Ankara, Turkey.

TVI aircraft for the MLU program
BAF F-16A Block 15R 80-3584 FA-93
RDAF F-16B block 1 78-0204 ET-204
RNlAF F-16B Block 15B 80-3650 J-650
RNoAF F-16A Block 10B 78-0299 299
USAF F-16A Block 15A 80-0584 80584
LTF aircraft for the MLU program
BAF F-16B Block 15AA 87-0001 FB-21
RDAF F-16A block 5 78-0177 E-177
RNLAF F-16A Block 10B 78-0251 J-251
RNoAF F-16B Block 10B 78-0306 306
PoAF F-16A Block 15P 82-1017 15133
RJAF F-16A Block 15A ADF 80-0589 671
PAF F-16B Block 15E 81-0933 82603
In total, 344 aircraft will be submitted to MLU (Portugal and possible future customers excluded):

Number of aircraft modified in the MLU program
BAF F-16A block 10 - RNLAF F-16A Block 10 6
F-16B Block 10 - F-16B Block 10 4
F-16A Block 15 72 F-16A Block 15 107
F-16B Block 15 18 F-16B Block 15 20
RDAF F-16A Block 10 24 RNoAF F-16A Block 10 20
F-16B Block 10 5 F-16B Block 10 4
F-16A Block 15 24 F-16A Block 15 25
F-16B Block 15 8 F-16B Block 15 7
Each of the EPAF countries contribute to the MLU program :

Belgium: SABCA Gosselies;
Denmark: Depot at Aalborg;
The Netherlands: Fokker Aircraft Services and the air force's DMVS depot at Woensdrecht;
Norway: Depot at Kjeller.
Each aircraft will take up to 2,500 man hours, which is roughly equal to 5 months.
Initial work
All five Test, Verification and Installation (TVI) aircraft are stripped to the airframe and re-assembled in a later stadium in order to perform all kinds of work, including the replacement of hundreds of wiring harnesses (the cockpit alone incorporates one hundred new wiring harnesses).

When the aircraft will be completely re-assembled, they will be transported to Edwards Air Force Base in order to perform flight tests. After these flights, the Dutch and Norwegian aircraft will moved to Leeuwarden Air Base for further flight tests. One of the tests include testing of the new fire control radar system under European weather conditions. In a later stadium, the Belgian TVI aircraft follows. At that time, the software tests will commence.

Is it worth all the effort and the money?
Because of the F-16s unpredicted heavier airframe load in the Royal Netherlands Air Force, the aircraft's airframe needs to be overhauled apart from the Mid Life Update to allow the airframe to complete 3,500 flight hours. Keeping the aircraft operational until its 5,000th flight hour make the costs involved in the airframe repair / overhaul affordable and acceptable, making expensive airframe "re-inspections" unnecessary. The costs of the airframe repair / overhaul only form a quarter of the costs involved in the Mid Life Update.

The costs involved in the ASIP maintenance program result in increased operational capabilities as well as an increased life expectancy for the F-16 aircraft. These costs are lower than the price of a new aircraft. After the F-16s Mid Life Update modernization program, the F-16 can compete again with the most advanced fighters of today's world. An increase of both technical and economical life expectancy justify the cost for the Mid Life Update program.

The air inlet structure of the Block 10 aircraft will be modified, due to the fact that the current inlet of Block 10 aircraft does not allow for the implementation of hard points to carry equipment such as the Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) pod.

Structure & Avionics / Avionics upgrade
Most of the avionics that will be installed during MLU is existing hardware that is modified for use in the F-16. The Modular Mission Computer however is designed especially for the F-16. This will undoubtedly be one of the most important computers of the F-16 once MLU is completed.

Modular Mission Computer
The most important item of the Mid Life Update package is the Texas Instruments Modular Mission Computer (MMC) which is the key to providing new capabilities such as sensors and weapons, improved pilot-vehicle interface and pilot aiding. Subcontractors are Terma, Nea Lindberg and Signaal. This computer consists of line-replaceable modules (LRMs) based upon several MIPSCO R3000 32-bit RISC microprocessors which will run the ADA high-order language. An object-oriented design will reduce the lead times for new software and will improve the software maintenance. Other features include multiplex bus modules, avionics display processor, display driver and power supplies. The MMC will be the key to driving towards fleetwide commonality of system modes and software.

It will replace three components, namely the computers currently in use for the Expanded Fire Control Computer (XFCC), the Head Up Display Electronics Unit (HUD EU or HUD symbol generator), and the Stores Management System's Expanded Central Interface Unit (XCIU). The MMC will take up 42% less volume in the aircraft, weights 55% less and consumes 37% less electrical power. Of the 24 slots available in the computer, ten will be used for future growth.

Fire Control Radar
The Westinghouse AN/APG-66(V2) Fire Control Radar (FCR) will be equipped with an completely new signal data processor. It allows a track-while-scan mode for up to ten targets as well as a six-on-six AIM-120 AMRAAM capability. Other features include a 25% improvement in detection and tracking range, an enhanced Doppler Beam Sharpening mode (DBS), enhanced air-ground and ground mapping modes, a medium resolutions DNS, an enhanced ECCM, and a color display compatibility. The MLU kit and the receiver will also have an 40% improved reliability over previous versions.

Physical parameters :

Volume : 3.43 cu. ft.
Weight : 261.5 lb
Power : 3285 V/A AC (Max), 155 Watts DC (Nominal)
Cooling : 11.3 lb/min a 27degr. C
Advanced IFF
The Hazeltine APX-113 Advanced Identification Friend-or-Foe system (AIFF) with increased range performance (100 Nm) will operate via four (rather striking) antennas mounted on the upper forward fuselage in front of the canopy. These "bird slicers", more formally known as Upper Interogator Fuselage Mounted Antenna (FMA) Array, will be the most noticeable exterior change of the Mid Life Update.

The benefits of this AIFF system will be the support for BVR weapons delivery in excess of Radar/Missile limits and the enhanced situational awareness which reduces the chance of a fratricide.

Cockpit displays and indicators
Wide Angle Conventional Head Up display
The new Wide Angle Conventional Head Up Display (WAC HUD) manufactured by GEC Marconi Avionics will increase readability and pilot comfort, offers a wider field of view than the current HUD and adds a raster capability and support for night operations. This HUD is also FLIR and EEGS compatible.

Multi-Function Display
The Multi-Function Display (MFD) set, manufactured by Honeywell, include two 10cm x 10cm (4in x 4in) color active matrix liquid crystal multi-function displays, which will replace the current single monochrome Radar Electro/Optical Indicator Unit (REO-IU) and the Stores Control Panel (SCP) - the Stores Management System display. Both displays will increase the pilot's Situational Awareness drastically and will therefore contribute to increased flight safety.

Enhanced Upgraded Programmable Display Generator
An Enhanced Upgraded Programmable Display Generator (EUPDG), manufactured by Honeywell and Nea Lindberg in Denmark, will support the two color MFD's, allowing the pilot to set up to twelve display programs. One of them includes a color Horizontal Situation Display, which will be, provide the pilot with a God's eye view of the tactical situation. Inside is a 20MHz, 32-bit Intel 80960 Display Processor and a 256K battery-backed RAM system memory. The color graphics controller is based on the T.I. TMS34020 Raster Graphics Chipset.

Audio/Video Recorder
Also new is the Cockpit Television System manufactured by Telemetrics. The current Airborne Video Tape Recorder (AVTR) will be replaced by a TEAC color audio visual tape recorder. Head Up Display images as well as the images of the Multi Function Displays will be selectable for recording which is great for the debriefing of missions.


The same Danish MLU, now in flight. (LMTAS photo)
Helmet Mounted Display
A helmet-mounted display (HMD) is not part of the present configuration, but program director Philip Schwab believes that the European operators may decide to incorporate it if the program continues to progress well. Lockheed Martin and Honeywell have demonstrated the use of the HMD, combined with DTS, to allow the pilot to designate targets of opportunity simply by placing an HMD pipper on the target. EPAF and USAF are to pursue a five-nation HMD program, related to the introduction of the ASRAAM, the Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile, somewhere in the next century. Software and hardware modifications are already being studied by a cockpit review team and both space and wiring is already being accounted for in the current MLU.

On Eglin AFB, Honeywell and GEC Marconi experiment with a Helmet Mounted Cueing System (HMCS), combined with Raytheon's Box-Office agile missile. Honeywell and GEC-Marconi will start with the development and promotion of a Look-And-Shoot Helmet Mounted Cueing System for the F-16. This year, flight tests will take place in one of Lockheed-Martin's F-16B duals.

Side stick controller and throttle grip
The side stick controller (manufactured by Lear Astronics Corporation) and throttle grip are block 50 unit models and will replace the current Block-10/15 stick grips. Both throttle and stick will be equipped with various controls, for an increased variety of functions, including VHF and UHF communications, IFF interrogation, Improved Data Modem operation, secondary flight controls (speed brakes), night vision cockpit blackout selection (NVIS Switch) and boresighting as well as slaving of missiles (now only selectable via the cues of the Stores Control Panel, which requires hands-off-throttle, head-down operation).

Modifications & Upgrades / Other features
Improved Data Modem
The Improved Data Modem (IDM), developed by the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory and built by Symetrics Inc., will be used to exchange data of various systems and targets with other aircraft (e.g. F-16, A-10, AH-64 or E-8 JSTARS) or with a ground station. Provisions have been made for the Link 16 Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS).

Electronic Warfare Management System
An Electronic Warfare Management System (EWMS) developed by Terma Elektronik AS in Denmark provides centralized EW control for entire EW suite : management of threats (RWR), ANQ pods and advanced chaff/flare systems.


Belgian Air Force block 20 MLU. The block 20 can be distinguished by the birdslicers. These are part of the indiginous IFF system. (Luis Rosa photo)
Miniaturized Airborne GPS Receiver
MAGR, Miniaturized Airborne GPS Receiver built by Rockwell-Collins Avionics & Communications Division, operating via an E-Systems antenna. It provides accurate position, velocity and time to support navigation, steering and weapon delivery. This system is smaller and lighter than the Block 40/50 receiver (RCVR 3A), consumes less power but delivers the same performance.

Digital Terrain System
A Digital Terrain System (DTS), which uses the British Aerospace Systems & Equipments (BASE) Terprom system hosted on a Fairchild Defense memory module (128kb). The DTS provides precise navigation (in conjunction with the Rockwell/E-Systems GPS) and performs a number of safety and situational-awareness functions in low-level flight. This does not imply however, that the F-16 will be capable of automatic terrain following. The (former Block-10/-15) F-16 aircraft does not have a digital flight control system, so the system cannot be linked directly to the aircraft's Flight Control System. The pilot will be following the DTS advice manually by flying on the Flight Path Marker in the HUD. The system is as accurate as the accuracy of the maps being used, so this requires extremely accurate maps of the area.

Cockpit Layout
The cockpit layout will be the one of the F-16C Block-40/50. However, unlike the Block-40/50 aircraft, the MLU F-16s will be equipped with color displays. The cockpit lighing will be compatible with Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) and all visible surfaces will be painted black. The Night Vision goggles are deactivated in the HUD field-of-view to allow inhibited HUD viewing.

Provisions for recce pods
Up to now, if the F-16 were to carry reconnaissance pods, it had to be specially equipped for that purpose. A number of Dutch F-16s has been equipped to carry the Oudedelft pod. The MLU will see a standard recce interface installed for a number of reconnaissance pods.

Provisions for the Microwave Landing System
This system will be incorporated in the F-16 structure. The system will not be standard equipment on the F-16 and the particular countries have to by it seperately. Although not standard, the system will enhance flight safety by adding an MLS, which can guide the pilot through adverse weather conditions.

Recent developments
First flights of TVI aircraft
The first of five TVI aircraft for the MLU has made its first flight from Fort Worth on April 28, 1995. This USAF F-16C, #80-0584/ED, a Block 15 model, is destined for the 20 Fighter Wing at Shaw AFB. The second TVI aircraft made its first flight on May 11, 1995. This is a two-seat F-16B aircraft (#ET-204) of the Royal Danish Air Force. The first two of five TVI aircraft were transported to Edwards AFB on June 9th, 1995.

Start of initial development test & evaluation
In June 1995, the first flights took place in the MLU's DT&E phase on Edwards Air Force base, under the leadership of main contractor Lockheed-Martin Tactical Aircraft Systems and the United States Air Force. Each of the four EPAF countries supplied its own test pilot.

Following the DT&E phase
Both aircraft will be equipped with special measurement systems and will be used in the Development Test & Evaluation test program at Edwards AFB, which will last until October 1997. The three other TVI aircraft will be used in the DT&E phase until mid-1996.

Further tests will then take place at Leeuwarden Air Base, The Netherlands, which will denote the start of the Operational Test & Evaluation phase of MLU. At Leeuwarden, four more MLU aircraft will join the program, the so called Lead The Fleet (LTF) aircraft, the first F-16s that will be modified for each of the four EPAF countries.

DT&E software tapes 1 thru 4
The DT&E aircraft now use the MLU Tape-1 software. This version will be replaced in June 1996 by the more extensive Tape-2 at the beginning of the OT&E phase. Tape-4 denote the final version which will be used in the Mid Life Update of other aircraft to be modified.

M1 tape

Development of the M1-tape went through four phases of Flight Test Tapes (FTT). In each of these test tapes, other performances where met, including:

FTT-1 tape

Radar performance evaluation
FTT-2 tape

Weapon modes Air-Air and Air-Ground testing
Navigation (INS and GPS)
Basic MMC core functions integration
FTT-3 tape

Datalink
IFF interrogation
Horizontal Situation Display
DTS integration
Cockpit color screen implementation
FTT-4 tape

"Clean-up" tape (intended as correction to imperfections found in earlier phases)
After the M1 tape, the M2 tape followed in 2000, M3 tape in 2003, M4 tape in 2005, M5 tape in 2008 and M6 tape in 2011. All these tapes incorporate other features, including:

M2 tape

Automatic Target Hand-off System (ATHS)
Integration of anti radiation (AGM-88) missile capability
Integration of target designator system
Further implementation of the Digital Terrain System
M3 tape

Integration of the Link-16 system
Integration of capability for GPS controlled weapons (GBU30/32)
Introduction of Helmet Mounted/Cueing Sight
Introduction of NVG compatible helmets
M4 tape

From this tape onwards the first release was already a subrelease starting at MX.1

M4.1 tape

Introduction of advanced short-range missile, as a replacement for the current Sidewinder (AIM-9X, IRIS-T)
Integration of advanced Link-16 functions
Integration of SNIPER targeting pods
M4.2 tape

Integration of the latest HARM Targeting System (HTS) and its R7 software
Integration of SNIPER targeting pod and its S3 software (capable of cataloguing, storing and relaying target images using the Link 16 data-link. M4.2 gives the capability to use the HTS and Sniper ATP on the same aircraft)
This tape was the first common software for USAF CCIP upgraded block 40/50 airframes.

M4.3 tape

"Clean-up" tape (intended as correction to imperfections found in earlier phases)
M5 tape

M5.1 tape

Integration of capability for stand-off weapons (AGM-154)
Introduction of more advanced A/G weapons (EGBU-12)
Introduction of advanced Stores Management System and Joint Mission Planning System
Introduction of an improved GPS/INS system (more accurate and jamming proof)
Introduction of new Link-16 message standards to improve interoperability between different aircraft types
Installation of AN/ARC-210 VHF radios to enable radio contact with FAC’s on the ground
M5.2 tape

"Clean-up" tape (intended as correction to imperfections found in earlier phases)
M6 tape

M6.1 tape

Improved IFF system (Mode 5 waveform with better distinction between friendly and enemy aircraft)
Introduction of AIM-120D missile (two-way datalink, improved navigation and High-Angle Off-Boresight capabilities, a doubled range)
Introduction of more advanced A/G weapons (GBU-39 SDB, GBU-54 LJDAM)
Integration of improved Link-16 functions with net-centric capability
Integration of a new Universal Armament Interface to standardize communication between the aircraft and the weapons, eliminating the need for new OPF tapes with every new weapon system
M6.2 tape

"Clean-up" tape (intended as correction to imperfections found in earlier phases)
Included minor updates like Auto GCAS capability nearly eliminating Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT) accidents, a leading cause of F-16 loss of pilot and aircraft accidents.
M6.5 tape

From this tape onwards there will be a difference between the European numbering sequence and the US. Funding for the M-tapes was extended through the years up untill number M6. The normal succession would mean an M7 would be next. This will be the case for the US (with their F-16s lasting untill well into the 2030s). Since the European F-16s are much older and reaching the end of their lifespan (2020-2030) it was difficult to convince them to extend funding for more updates to the F-16s. Specifically the Netherlands and Norway weren't eager since they already opted to replace the F-16 with the F-35 with fleet introduction starting in 2019 and F-16 phase out around 2024). Much of the updates found in tape M6.5 will be the same as tape M7.

Rectification of some earlier weapon integration shortcomings
Integration of new weapons (JASSM, JDAM, EGBU-12, SDB, AIM-120D and AIM-9X)
Integration of advanced racks (BRU-69), pylons, adapters and the UAI (ensuring nuclear surety and compatibility)
Update of the Link-16 protocol
Upgrade of the AN/AAQ-14 interface software
Update of the AN/ALR-56M system
Update of the GPS system
M7 tape

M7.1 tape

Has the same set of updates as the European M6.5 tape.

M7.2 tape

Integration of the Northrop Grumman AN/APG-83 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar
Introduction of the latest AIM-120D missile
Introduction of AGM-158B Joint Air-To-Surface Standoff Missile Extended Range (JASSM-ER)
39 more operational upgrades (more info needed)
Specifications
Engine: One Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220 turbofan, rated at 14,590 lb.s.t. dry and 23,770 lb.s.t. with afterburning.

Maximum speed: Mach 2.05 at 40,000 feet. Service ceiling 55,000 feet. Maximum range 2400 miles. Initial climb rate 62,000 feet per minute.

Dimensions: wingspan 32 feet 9 1/2 inches, length 49 feet 3 1/2 inches, height 16 feet 8 1/2 inches, wing area 300 square feet.

Weights: 16,285 pounds empty, 25,281 pounds combat, 37,500 pounds maximum takeoff.



Special thanks

Stephan Plancke
Errors and Omissions

Jan 18, 2005 - 07:58 PM
the 37500 lbs max takeoff is the maximum allowable combat takeoff weight, the airframe of the block 10/15 F-16 however was designed for a service life of 8000 flight hours at a maximum combat weight of 35400 lbs. Prolongued operation over the 35400 lbs limit could result in a decrease in service life of up to 25%.


Jun 01, 2022 - 05:06 PM
BRU-57
Was the BRU-57 ever supported by any of the MLU MX tapes?

ljqc
Dec 17, 2022 - 09:45 AM
AGM154A for MLU M3
Contents of JDAM, JSOW(AGM-154A) and WCMD are included in section 7 INERTIALLY AIDED MUNITIONS, MLU Production Tape M3 The Pilot’s Guide (17 February 2004).

So it's not first included in M5.1, but M3.


Oct 10, 2024 - 04:28 PM
Flight control system of F-16 MLU
"The (former Block-10/-15) F-16 aircraft does not have a digital flight control system, so the system cannot be linked directly to the aircraft's Flight Control System."

So these four nation planes(N,B,NL,D) did not get the digital flight control system at the MLU program or later at the Tape programs? Even its mentioned that after MLU the planes were at level Block 50 which has digital flight control system?

https://www.f-16.net/f-16_versions_article2.html

Flyvevaben
Royal Danish Air Force - RDAF



Royal Danish AF F-16A in recce configuration, equiped with the Baron recce pod and the Pylon Integrated Dispenser System (PIDS) - a countermeasures dispenser in the outer wing pylons. [RDAF photo]



Introduction
The Royal Danish Air Force bought a total of 77 F-16A/B aircraft in 2 major batches and 2 attrition replacement orders. Of these, 48 aircraft and 14 spares, all upgraded to MLU standard, will remain operational until 2020-2025 when they will be replaced by the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.

History
In the late 1970s, Belgium, Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands started looking for a replacement for the F-104 Starfighter. These four nations, known as the European Participating Air Forces (EPAF), became the first international customers for the F-16. Together with the US, they started a unique multi-national development program for the F-16.

Under the terms of the agreement, F-16 Fighting Falcons for the EPAF nations were to be produced in Europe. Danish F-16s for the initial and follow-up order were built on the SABCA production line in Belgium and the Fokker line in The Netherlands respectively.

Denmark considers the F-35 Joint strike Fighter as a possible F-16 successor. It has participated in the JSF project since 1997, and for the time being JSF is one of a few candidates. A number of Danish companies are associated with the JSF project, which entitles them to compete as subcontractors.


RDAF F-16AM, #E-607, armed with AMRAAM and a GBU-12 laser guided bomb [RDAF photo]
Inventory
Initial Order
The initial Flyvevaben (Royal Danish Air Force) order was for 46 single seat F-16A's and 12 two-seat F-16B's. Final assembly of these planes was carried out by the SABCA plant in Belgium, and all were built to the initial block 1 standards. Deliveries to the RDAF began on January 28th, 1980, with the arrival of the first F-16B.
Since all European built F-16s were assigned USAF serials for administrative purposes, RDAF F-16s carry the last 3 digits of their USAF serial numbers on the fuselage. For F-16A's, the serial number is prefixed by E, for F-16B's it is prefixed by ET.

The 58 F-16A/B's in the initial RDAF order were later upgraded to F-16A/B block 10 standards by the RDAF's Aalborg workshop in the Pacer Loft I program.

Follow-On Order
After briefly considering buying 24 additional F-16s to replace its aging Saab Drakens (an order which never came through), a follow-on batch of 12 block 15 (large-tail) aircraft was ordered in August 1984. The order consisted of 8 single seat F-16As and 4 two-seat F-16Bs. Contrary to the aircraft of the initial order, the aircraft of the follow-on order were built by Fokker in The Netherlands, and were intended as attrition replacements.


RDAF F-16A #E-004 was part of a follow-on order for 12 Block 15 aircraft. Note the PIDS on the middle hardpoint [Photo by H. Kristensen]
Attrition Replacements I
Three former USAF Block 15 aircraft from the 170th Fighter Squadron of the Illinois Air National Guard were delivered to the RDAF in July of 1994. The serial numbers of these aircraft were #82-1024, #83-1075 and #83-1107.


RDAF F-16A Block 15 #E-024 was one of three ex-USAF attrition replacement aircraft that were delivered to Denmark in 1994, and is seen here dressed up for for the holiday season [RDAF photo]
Attrition Replacements II
A second batch of 4 attrition replacements arrived in early 1997. They will be spread among the existing units and will be upgraded to MLU-standard. The -A Block 15's are former 704 FW, Texas AFRC aircraft and the -B Block 10 is a former 162 FW, Tucson ANG machine.

RDAF Inventory
Program Model Block Qty. Serials Delivered
Initial Order F-16A Block 1 3 E-174/E-176 1980-1983
F-16B 2 ET-204/ET-205
F-16A block 5 12 E-177/E-188
F-16B 3 ET-206/ET-208
F-16A Block 10 15 E-189/E-203
F-16B 3 ET-209/ET-211
F-16A Block 15 16 E-596/E-611
F-16B 4 ET-612/ET-615
Follow-On F-16A Block 15 5 E-004/E-008 1987-1991
3 E-016/E-018
F-16B 3 ET-197/ET-199
1 ET-022
Attrition I F-16A Block 15 3 E-024,E-075, E-107 1994
Attrition II F-16A Block 15 3 E-011, E-070, E-074 1997
F-16B Block 10 1 ET-626
Modifications & Armament
Identification Light
All Danish F-16s are equipped with a search light, mounted on the port forward fuselage, in front of and just beneath the canopy. The search light is used for identification during nighttime interceptions, and uses a 450W light bulb. This modification is the same as the light on Norwegian F-16s, and similar to the ADF's. The RDAF already installed this searchlight during initial production.


All Danish AF F-16s are equiped with an Identification Spotlight on the port side of the cockpit, used to identify night-time intruders. [F-16.net photo]
Pylon Integrated Dispenser
The RDAF's F-16s have been given extra wiring to the no. 3 and 7 wing stations, in order to be able to accept the Pylon Integrated Dispenser Station. The PIDS is manufactured by Per Udsen Co. Aircraft Industry (Terma A/S since 1997) in Denmark, and is in fact a pylon equipped with chaff dispensers. Normal configuration is to carry a PIDS on either 3 or 7 station, and the Advanced Miniature Jamming System (AN/ALQ-10) on the opposite pylon. AMJS is a very powerful system comparable with the AN/ALQ-131 series, and is also built in Denmark.

The chaff dispenser used by the RDAF right now is the RR-170 with 30 chaff cartridges in each. After briefly considering the RR-180, the RDAF has ordered a new type called Cherming Chaff Block (CCB) from Cherming Ltd., England. The CCB is the same size as the RR-170 but carries 60 charges.

All chaff/flare/ECM activity is controlled by the (digital) Electronic Warfare Management System (EWMS) which is made by the Danish company Terma. The mechanical firing mechanism in the chaff/flare canisters have also been replaced by a digital one from Danish origin.

Reconnaissance Pods
Some Danish F-16s also have the capability of carrying the Red Baron Recce Pod. The Red Baron Pod has been replaced by the Modular Reconnaissance Pod (MRP), locally developed by Per Udsen Co. (now Terma). This pod has also been exported, amongst others to to Belgium.


Royal Danish AF F-16A in recce configuration, equiped with the Baron recce pod and the Pylon Integrated Dispenser System (PIDS) - a countermeasures dispenser in the outer wing pylons. [RDAF photo]
Mid-Life Update
The RDAF participates in the MLU program and has modified all of its remaining 61 F-16s in the Aalborg workshop.

Armament
The primary air-intercept weapon carried by RDAF F-16A/B's is the AIM-9L Sidewinder, but the RDAF plans to acquire the AIM-120 AMRAAM fire-and-forget air-to-air missile for its F-16s. It will also acquire the Hughes AGM-65G Maverick air-to-surface missile for ground attack missions, with the LAU-3, Mk 82 and Mk 84 also staying in service in the near future.

With the modernization of the Danish F-16s to MLU standards, also other weapon systems were introduced on the fleet. Besides the purchase of some LANTIRN pods, also LGB weapons were acquired consisting in GBU-12 and GBU-24 weapons. Denmark was the first of the four EPAF countries to purchase the GBU-31 JDAM for its F-16 fleet.


Danish F-16 at Karup AFB with weapons line-up [RDAF photo]
Avionics
Since Danish pilots found that the built-in clock/timer in the instrument stack was not ideal to use, a cheap digital quartz watch was fitted next to the HUD on all Danish F-16s.

Currently the aircraft are being upgraded with the LINK 16 advanced tactical data link, JHMCS (Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System), and an advanced EWMS (Electronic Warfare Management System)

Operational Service
Units
Please refer to the F-16 Units section for an overview of units.
Deployments
Allied Force
Grazzanise AB, Italy, 1999

During operation 'Allied Force' in 1999, Denmark participated with a number of F-16s stationed at Grazzanise AFB in Italy, together with F-16s from Norway. Danish F-16s most of the time undertook CAP missions. During the conflict, the RDAF also sent their updated MLU F-16s to Italy to take maximum effect of the AIM-120 missiles and the other advantages offered by the upgraded airframe.


Enduring Freedom
Manas AB, Kyrgyzstan, 2002

In 2002 the Danish government decided to send F-16s to Afghanistan in support of operation 'Enduring Freedom'. Their aircraft are stationed at Manas AFB in Kyrgyzstan together with aircraft from The Netherlands and Norway. Operations have been flown from October 2002 to October 2003. All EPAF countries, except for Belgium, have flown together in this operation, showing a multinational detachment can operate in a hostile environment very effectively.

Baltic Republics Air Police
Lithuania, 2004

After Belgium provided for the first 3 month rotation for the air policing of the three Baltic republics - Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia - the RDAF send 5 F-16s to Lithuania to take over from this detachment. From July 1st till October 10th, 2004 they provided air cover over the Baltic states being supplemented by RAF Tornado F-3 aircraft from the latter date.

Iceland Air Policing and Surveillance
Keflavik, 2009 and 2010

Iceland has been a NATO partner since 1949. During the past decades the USAF provided air coverage over the island from Keflavik AB untill that deployment ended in 2006. From then on sporadic deployments have taken place with the RDAF F-16s providing air cover over the island both in March till May of 2009 and 2010.

https://www.f-16.net/f-16_users_article3.html

FIRST F-16 IN TANDI,L, ARGENTINA

Assembly is progressing at the VI Air Brigade.






In addition, trucks have arrived with the equipment and tools necessary to begin assembling the 25th F-16 aircraft at the VI Air Brigade in Tandil.
Danish technicians will also arrive, who will begin assembly. The first step will be to place the aircraft on its landing gear.

IMO, Japan could later also sell them some of her F-2s, not to mention the French, if they still have good used Mirages.

Argentina is bankrupt. They can't buy them.

Argentina, for decades, has been a serious case with the issue of buying weapons.
It seems like a joke, but the left-wing governments did not buy anything from China or Russia.
What's more, they continued buying from the West and even continued with the modernization of the TAM with Israel.
The right-wing governments did buy. Macri brought the SEM and Milei the F-16.
The supposed left-wing governments did not buy "a damn thing."
Contrary to what Chavez did, which is consistent with strategic thinking, he transformed the Venezuelan Armed Forces into one of the most powerful in Latin America, if not the first.

It would be interesting to see what defense the English base in the Malvinas can have, if it is attacked by 20 F-16s.


The UK has four Typhoon interceptor fighters at its base in Mount Pleasant.



Argentina has just bought 24 ex-Danish F-16s.