VICTORY FOR THE VIPER

摘要

Advanced capability upgrades have re-invigorated the iconic Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon, nickname Viper. It's been given a new lease of life, yet five years ago the future did not look bright for the snake head. IN JANUARY 2024, the Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon will celebrate a golden anniversary - an incredible 50 years since its maiden flight. The multirole fighter, with more than 4,500 sales to 25 nations, will undoubtedly still be in production at the new Greenville facility in South Carolina. Assembly started there in November 2019, after almost five decades of production at Fort Worth, Texas; and new orders look set to roll on beyond 2024.