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The Indian Air Force is the fourth largest air force in the world, but the issue of lack of aircraft in its fleet compared to its rivals has always been raised. Interestingly, despite the growing relations with the US, the Indian Air Force does not have any American fighter aircraft in its fleet. On the other hand, Pakistan, which considers India as its arch enemy, has a fleet of American F-16 fighter planes. Although India has no objection to buying these planes from the US, New Delhi itself has maintained distance from American planes. But now once again American giant Lockheed Martin is offering its F-16V Block 70/72 to the Indian Air Force.
F-16V equipped with state-of-the-art technology
Lockheed Martin is projecting the F-16V as a major contender for the Indian Air Force’s aircraft tender. The latest Block 70/72 variant of the F-16 has been upgraded with technology by Lockheed Martin. The fighter jet is equipped with the AN/APG-83 AESA radar, which is used in fifth-generation fighter aircraft. This enhances its ability to target the target. The US aircraft is equipped with the Viper Shield electronic warfare system which gives it a strong survival package.
Plan to make India a production hub
Lockheed Martin is looking at India as a potential production and export hub for the F-16V. Lockheed Martin is expecting an order of more than 100 fighter jets from the Indian Air Force. Along with this, the company also expects exports from India, which could make India a major player in the global fighter jet market. Lockheed Martin is planning to make India a base for supplying fighter jets to the Asian market.
At a time when the Indian Air Force is evaluating its options for a Medium Multi Role Fighter Aircraft, the F16V presents an attractive proposition. With its excellent track record, advanced capabilities and potential export opportunities, the aircraft is well positioned to become a significant contender in the competition.
Indian Airforce needs Multirole Fighter Aircraft (MRFA). Under this, there is a plan to buy 114 fighter jets. Because of this, three big companies of the world are in tough competition. In which Dassault Rafale, Boeing F-15EX and Lockheed Martin’s F-16 fighter jet are prominent.
Today we know about F-16
- Lockheed Martin Company is introducing its best fighter jet F-16V Block 70/72 for the Indian Air Force’s Multirole Fighter Aircraft (MRFA). The whole world knows about the power of this fighter jet. This variant of this fighter jet is ultra-modern, accurate and deadly.
- The AN/APG-83 AESA radar installed in it is expert in identifying enemy targets, chasing them and protecting itself from enemy attacks. Apart from this, Viper Shield electronic warfare system is installed in it.
- The F-16 fighter jet is one of the best aircraft in the world. It has been the trusted fighter jet of many countries for 48 years. So far, about 4604 aircraft have been manufactured. This plane is flown by a pilot.
- The 49.3 feet long plane can carry 3200 kg of fuel at a time. It can fly at a speed of about 2500 km per hour. Its combat range with full weapons is 546 km. It is also called Super Viper.
- It has a 20 mm rotary cannon which fires 511 rounds per minute. Apart from this, 2 air-to-air missiles, 6 under wing, 3 under fuselage pylon bombs can be installed in it.
- Apart from this, 4 rockets or 6 air-to-air, air-to-surface or air-to-ship missiles can be installed. Or a combination of these. Eight bombs can also be installed in it.
