The first Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70s departed the U.S. for Bahrain on Wednesday, making the Persian Gulf island country the first Gulf Cooperation Council member to operate the fighter jets.
The ferry cell of aircraft left Lockheed Martin’s facility in Greenville, South Carolina, on Wednesday, and are among the 19-21 jets produced at the facility that the company anticipates delivering this year.
The 4.5 generation fighters are equipped with APG-83 AESA radar, advanced avionics, and modernized cockpit. The aircraft also feature advancements, such as conformal fuel tanks, offering extended flight range, and automatic ground collision avoidance system.
“With the introduction of the F-16 Block 70, we are witnessing a significant leap in fighter capabilities,” said OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager of the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin. “The integration of this proven platform will allow the Royal Bahraini Air Force to safeguard its skies effectively and partner with allies worldwide.”
Lockheed Martin has produced five F-16 Block 70 aircraft, dubbed the Fighting Falcon, for the Royal Bahraini Air Force, with 11 more in various stages of testing and production. The initial aircraft are at Edwards Air Force Base, California, where they are undergoing flight testing, Lockheed Martin said.
