Overview
The F-16 ＂Fighting Falcon＂ was designed and manufactured by the Lockheed Martin Corporation. Since its introduction into the ROCAF in 1997, the aircraft has been in service for over 25 years. Featuring a single jet engine, conventional tail design, and a large underslung air intake, the fighter was upgraded under the “Phoenix Rising” program (2012-2023), enhancing its stealth, long-range reconnaissance, and beyond-visual-range combat capabilities. As of now, the F-16V “Viper” effectively defends Taiwan’s airspace thanks to its outstanding maneuverability and versatile combat capabilities, and remains a key fighter aircraft for the Air Force.
Main Tasks
The F-16 is responsible for conducting air superiority, naval strike, and close air support missions. The aircraft, armed with the AIM-120 beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile and AIM-9X air-to-air missile and equipped with the latest radar, is capable of engaging beyond-visual targets and dogfighting. In addition, it can be armed with air-launched Harpoon missiles, giving it a key role in gaining naval supremacy.
Specifications
Wingspan: 32 ft 10 in
Length: 49 ft 6 in
Height: 16 ft 8.5 in
Powerplant: one F100-PW-220E turbofan engine
Max takeoff weight: 42,300 lbs
Max thrust (with afterburner): 25,000 lbf
Max speed: Mach 2.05/800 kn
Max range: 2,050 nm
Service ceiling: 50,000 ft
Armament: ALQ-184 pods, AN/AAQ-33 Sniper ATP pods, , AIM-9 missiles, AIM-120 missiles, AGM-65 , AGM-84 , AGM-88B , 20mm cannon, BDU-50 bombs, GBU-10/12, BDU-33 bombs, JDAM/LJDAM, Mark 82/84 bombs.