The UAE Air Force currently has 56 Mirage 2000-9 multi-role fighters in three main models, including 13 combat-trainers. It also has 77 F-16 Block 60 multi-role fighters, among which are 24 Model F combat trainers. The F-16E/F, known as the Desert Falcon, is one of the most advanced examples of the fourth-generation multi-role fighter developed by Lockheed Martin, reaping a $3bn investment from the UAE. These fighters have been in the service of the country's air force since 2003. The AN/APG-80 AESA is one of the most advanced radars developed for F-16 use and is the eyes and brain of Emirati F-16 Block 60s. The radar has made these fighters the most progressive member of the F-16 family for 15 years; the technology can simultaneously detect and track multiple flight and ground targets, as well as loitering drones at low altitudes. The APG-80 radar provides the ability to detect and intercept a fighter with a radar cross section of 1 m~2 from a distance of 110km. It can also detect and intercept targets from the size of a cruise missile to a small drone with a radar cross-section of 10cm~2 from a distance of 62km, and even a stealth fighter from a distance of 20km.
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