The Future of Air Defense
FROM THE SOUTHERN AIR IMPORT // DEFENSE PROCUREMENT · NOVEMBER 1986
THE FUTURE OF AIR DEFENSE
Modified F-16A Selected For Continental Defense Duties
Northrop’s F-20 Tigershark, the losing contender, fires an AIM-7F Sparrow, February 27, 1985.
The United States Air Force has selected a modified version of the General Dynamics F-16A to fulfill an important continental air-defense requirement, marking a significant development in the service's plans for defending American airspace.
The selection follows a competition involving Northrop's F-20 Tigershark, an aircraft developed as a relatively economical fighter for both American and international markets.
Rather than purchasing an entirely new fleet, the Air Force intends to modify existing F-16A aircraft already held within its inventory.
Approximately 270 aircraft are expected to receive the necessary modifications before being transferred to Air National Guard units around the country.
The decision reflects an emphasis upon economy and the effective use of existing equipment. Older F-4 and F-106 aircraft assigned to air-defense duties will gradually be replaced.
The F-16's selection also demonstrates the aircraft's continued adaptability. Originally developed as a lightweight tactical fighter, it has become an increasingly versatile platform with applications extending beyond its original operational requirements.
For Northrop, the decision represents a disappointment for the F-20 program. Despite substantial private investment and considerable development effort, the Tigershark has struggled to secure the military endorsement necessary to strengthen its international sales prospects.
The outcome is a reminder that technical capability alone does not guarantee success in the defense market. Procurement decisions are influenced by existing inventories, political considerations, logistics and the long-term cost of operating an aircraft fleet.
IMPORT NOTE: The modification of existing aircraft offers an attractive alternative to purchasing new equipment. The F-16 decision should be watched closely by international operators considering fleet modernization.
FROM THE MANIFEST
SOUTHERN AIR IMPORT · NOV. 10, 1986 · DEPT. 9
SOUTHERN AIR TRADE // THE MANIFEST