Article Posted on : - Aug 26, 2014

The F-16V will feature enhancements including an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, an upgraded mission computer and architecture, and improvements to the cockpit. Photo: Lockheed Martin.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (BNS): The newest configuration of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, the F-16V, has reached a major capability milestone with the integration of a new Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar.

The completion of this AESA radar Critical Design Review ensures Northrop Grumman's Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR) design meets all specified U.S. Air Force and Lockheed Martin requirements, according to a news release by Lockheed Martin.

Lockheed Martin said that it will continue with follow-on activities such as development integration and ground and flight test for Taiwan's fleet of 144 Block 20 F-16A/B fighter jets.

With the upgrade to the new SABR and enhancements to the mission computer, vehicle systems, aircraft structure, cockpit and electronic warfare system, Taiwan moves forward as the launch customer for the new F-16V configuration.

More than 4,550 F-16 aircraft have been delivered to date, and production is expected to continue through 2017, with major upgrades being incorporated for all F-16 versions, the release added.