Why the F-16 fighter jet remains a force to be reckoned with (updated 2025)
The F-16 Block 70/72 is the latest and most sought-after version of the fighter. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
The list of countries that would like to get their hands on the F-16, whether that is the latest variant or upgrading its existing fleet to the Block 70/72 type, continues to grow.
Ukraine’s acquisitions of F-16s continue, although training for its pilots on the aircraft has slowed over the last year with more pilot training deemed ‘critical’ for its operational use in the country as President Zelensky said the country did not have enough pilots to fly the aircraft.
The first donated F-16s for the country from Denmark arrived in August 2024, with the second batch arriving in
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
What lessons could Europe learn from air power use in Ukraine?
The use of air power by both sides in the ongoing conflict has been extensively focused on, influencing policy and procurement around the world. But are the lessons from the front line universally applicable, or should other nations be planning for very different scenarios?
-
Baykar completes Piaggio Aerospace takeover with plans to boost drone production
The takeover of the Italian firm by Baykar solidifies the company’s efforts to forge closer ties with Italian industry, bolsters its partnership with Leonardo to produce UAVs and secures its foothold in Europe.
-
Leonardo’s Proteus structural tests “nearing completion” ahead of first flight
The company has tested over 15 mission sets for the drone, with the rotorcraft used to demonstrate the viability of armed forces utilising large uncrewed aerial systems’ (UAS) for autonomous missions in the future.