F-16 Fighting Falcon news https://www.f-16.net/ F-16 Fighting Falcon news brought to you by F-16.net en-us F-16 Fighting Falcon news https://www.f-16.net/themes/EvolutionOne/images/F-16.net-logo.png https://www.f-16.net/ webmaster@f-16.net US approves major F-16 weapons package for UAE under emergency authorization Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:00:00 EST March 20, 2026 (by Lieven Dewitte) - The United States has approved a major weapons package for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), aimed at enhancing the combat capabilities of its F-16 fleet. The combined value of the two approved packages is estimated at $1.86 billion.
UAEAF F-16E block 60 #3078 from 1 sqn departs a KC-10A Extender aircraft from the 908th EARS after refueling during a multinational exercise on December 7th, 2009, in Southwest Asia. [USAF photo by SSgt. Michael B. Keller]
UAEAF F-16E block 60 #3078 from 1 sqn departs a KC-10A Extender aircraft from the 908th EARS after refueling during a multinational exercise on December 7th, 2009, in Southwest Asia. [USAF photo by SSgt. Michael B. Keller]
Announced on March 19, 2026, the approval covers both air-to-air missiles and precision-guided munitions for the UAE Air Force and Air Defence (AFAD), which operates the advanced F-16E/F block 60 ]]>“”
According to the U.S. Department of State, the sale was authorized under an emergency determination, allowing the process to move forward without the standard congressional review period.

Air-to-air capability boost
The first package, valued at approximately $1.22 billion, includes up to 400 AIM-120C-7 or AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM missiles. These beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles significantly enhance the F-16]]>’
The package also includes associated support equipment, spare parts, and logistical services required to sustain operations.

Precision strike enhancements
A second package, worth an estimated $644 million, focuses on air-to-ground capabilities. It includes:
  • 1,500 GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs (SDB I);
  • 900 KMU-556 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) and
  • 300 KMU-557 JDAM guidance sets.

These systems provide the UAE]]>’
Supporting the Desert Falcon fleet
The UAE operates 78 F-16E/F Block 60 aircraft, one of the most advanced F-16 variants ever produced. The ]]>“”AESA radar, conformal fuel tanks, and advanced electronic warfare systems, making it a highly capable multirole platform.

The newly approved munitions are expected to complement these capabilities, ensuring the fleet remains fully equipped for both air superiority and precision strike missions.

No timeline has been disclosed for the delivery of the weapons. The U.S. Secretary of State determined that an emergency exists requiring the immediate sale in the interest of national security, thereby waiving the standard Congressional review requirements.

In addition to its F-16 fleet, the UAE also operates Mirage 2000-9 fighters and has ordered 80 Dassault Rafale aircraft, which are expected to enter service in the coming years. Until then, the F-16E/F fleet continues to serve as a central pillar of the country]]>’

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UAEAF F-16F block 60 "3001 is photographed in a spectacular way on the break at NAS Fort Worth in February of 2021. This aircraft has stayed in the US with Lockheed for its entire carreer to conduct test flights. [Photo by Txavgeek]
UAEAF F-16F block 60 "3001 is photographed in a spectacular way on the break at NAS Fort Worth in February of 2021. This aircraft has stayed in the US with Lockheed for its entire carreer to conduct test flights. [Photo by Txavgeek]
UAEAF F-16F block 60 #3002 is still serving as a Lockheed test mule at Fort Worth. It is seen during a pilot proficiency flight at the base on May 1st, 2025. The previous civil registration, N162LM, is showing through peeling paint at the base of the tail. [Photo by Keith Snyder]
UAEAF F-16F block 60 #3002 is still serving as a Lockheed test mule at Fort Worth. It is seen during a pilot proficiency flight at the base on May 1st, 2025. The previous civil registration, N162LM, is showing through peeling paint at the base of the tail. [Photo by Keith Snyder]
UAEAF F-16F block 60 #3023 from 2 sqn is parked on a very sunny tarmac at Dubai IAP on November 14th, 2021. [Photo by Dirk A. Geerts]
UAEAF F-16F block 60 #3023 from 2 sqn is parked on a very sunny tarmac at Dubai IAP on November 14th, 2021. [Photo by Dirk A. Geerts]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-16-news-article5353.html Top Aces to train Argentine Air Force F‑16 pilots Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 EST March 19, 2026 (by Lieven Dewitte) - The Argentine Air Force (Fuerza Aérea Argentina, FAA) has awarded a multi]]>‑Top Aces to deliver F]]>‑’‑
One of the first F-16s delivered to Argentina. [Photo by Argentine MoD]
One of the first F-16s delivered to Argentina. [Photo by Argentine MoD]
Under the deal, valued at approximately $33.2]]> Top Aces will provide comprehensive pilot instruction from basic qualification through mission qualification, flight lead upgrade and instructor pilot training. The contract, issued under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales framework, is expected to run until June]]>  
Unlike some foreign training programmes that use contractor aircraft, the FAA]]>’Argentina]]>’‑’
Top Aces]]>’‑ ‑‑’
Argentina]]>’‑’‑Denmark, with the first batch of six aircraft delivered in late]]> ‑
The Top Aces training contract supports this effort by building a cadre of qualified FAA pilots and future instructor pilots, enabling Argentina to sustain an independent pilot training pipeline in the years ahead.

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F-16 (M-1005) of the Argentine Air Force on the tarmac at Ri]]>́<![CDATA[o Cuarto Air Base following its arrival from Denmark. [Photo by Top Aces]
F-16 (M-1005) of the Argentine Air Force on the tarmac at Ri]]>́
Farewell flight of the RDAF F-16 by #E-018, #E-605 and #ET-612 with the white cliffs of Møns Klint showing in the background. E-018 is one of the aircraft transferred to the Argentine Air Force. [Forsvaret photo]
Farewell flight of the RDAF F-16 by #E-018, #E-605 and #ET-612 with the white cliffs of Møns Klint showing in the background. E-018 is one of the aircraft transferred to the Argentine Air Force. [Forsvaret photo]
FAA F-16BM #M-1210 is parked in the hanger where the inauguration ceremony will take place in February of 2025. [FAA photo]
FAA F-16BM #M-1210 is parked in the hanger where the inauguration ceremony will take place in February of 2025. [FAA photo]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-16-news-article5352.html Belgian F-16s test laser-guided rockets for counter-drone missions Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 EST March 19, 2026 (by F-16.net) - The Belgian Air Force has begun testing a new counter-drone capability by equipping its F-16AM Fighting Falcons with laser-guided 70 mm rockets, reflecting the growing urgency to address the threat posed by low-cost unmanned aerial systems.
BAF F-16AM #FA-123 is coming in for landing showing off the brand-new Thales FZ275 guided rocket pods under the wing, seen here at Kleine-Brogel AB on February 27th, 2026. [Photo by Tim Van den Bergh]
BAF F-16AM #FA-123 is coming in for landing showing off the brand-new Thales FZ275 guided rocket pods under the wing, seen here at Kleine-Brogel AB on February 27th, 2026. [Photo by Tim Van den Bergh]
According to recent reports, Belgian F-16s have been trialing the FZ275 laser-guided rocket (LGR), a precision-guided munition developed by Thales Belgium. The tests are part of a broader effort to explore cost-effective solutions for countering small and inexpensive attack drones, which have proven highly disruptive in recent conflicts.

A cost-effective response to a growing threat
The Belgian Ministry of Defence highlighted that modern battlefields have demonstrated how relatively cheap drones can inflict disproportionate damage. Using traditional air defense systems or high-end air-to-air missiles against such targets is often economically inefficient.

By contrast, laser-guided 70 mm rockets offer a significantly lower-cost alternative while still providing precision engagement capability. The FZ275 LGR is designed to convert standard unguided rockets into accurate, laser-guided weapons with a range of several kilometers and high hit probability.

F-16 integration and test configuration
Images released earlier in March showed a Belgian F-16AM configured with multiple LAU-131 rocket launchers, capable of carrying several 70 mm rockets per pod. This setup allows a single aircraft to engage multiple drone targets during a sortie, increasing its effectiveness in counter-UAS missions.

The trials reportedly focus on evaluating how well the rockets can be integrated into existing F-16 targeting systems and how effectively they can engage small, maneuverable aerial targets.

Part of a broader counter-UAS effort
The testing comes as Belgium accelerates its investment in counter-drone capabilities. The country recently launched a tender for a long-term counter-UAS solution, underlining the strategic importance of defending against unmanned threats.

The FZ275 is also gaining attention beyond Belgium. Earlier in 2026, the rocket was successfully tested as part of the U.S.-developed VAMPIRE counter-drone system, demonstrating its flexibility across different platforms.

Looking ahead
While still in the evaluation phase, the integration of laser-guided rockets on Belgian F-16s highlights a broader trend among air forces seeking scalable and affordable solutions to counter drone swarms.

If adopted operationally, the concept could provide a valuable bridge capability as Belgium transitions from its F-16 fleet to the F-35, ensuring continued relevance in modern, drone-heavy conflict environments.

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Forum discussion: ]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-16-news-article5351.html Greece approves F-16 upgrades alongside new air defense investments Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 EST March 19, 2026 (by Lieven Dewitte) - Greece approved a new defense package that includes further upgrades to its F-16 fighter fleet alongside the acquisition of additional air defense systems, as part of a broader effort to modernize its armed forces. The decision was announced on March 16, 2026.
HAF F-16C block 52 #513 from 343 Mira is taking off from Kleine Brogel AB on September 13th, 2021 flying back home after the Sanicole airshow. [Photo by John de Winter]
HAF F-16C block 52 #513 from 343 Mira is taking off from Kleine Brogel AB on September 13th, 2021 flying back home after the Sanicole airshow. [Photo by John de Winter]
Expanding the F-16 upgrade program
The Hellenic Air Force (HAF) operates a fleet of approximately 150 F-16s, making it one of the largest operators of the type in Europe. As part of its ongoing modernization effort, Greece has already upgraded around 40 aircraft to the advanced F-16V Block 70/72 ]]>“”
The latest plan includes the upgrade of an additional 38 F-16 block 50 aircraft, further expanding the number of jets equipped with modern avionics and systems.

The F-16V upgrade introduces the AN/APG-83 AESA radar, enhanced mission computers, advanced cockpit displays, and improved electronic warfare capabilities. These upgrades significantly boost the aircraft]]>’NATO forces.

Once completed, the Viper-standard F-16s are expected to form the backbone of Greece]]>’
Integrated air defense improvements
In parallel with the F-16 upgrades, Greece is investing in new and upgraded air defense systems to strengthen its layered defense network. These systems are designed to complement the capabilities of the modernized fighter fleet, improving the detection and response to a wide range of aerial threats, including aircraft, missiles, and drones.

The combined approach reflects a broader strategy of integrating airborne and ground-based assets into a cohesive air defense architecture.

Looking ahead
Beyond the F-16 program, Greece is also moving forward with its next-generation fighter plans. The Hellenic Air Force is expected to receive at least 20 F-35 Lightning II aircraft, with an option for 20 additional jets, further enhancing its future capabilities.

Together, these investments underline Greece]]>’
Further details on timelines and contract specifics have yet to be released.

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HAF F-16D block 52 #023 void of unit markings but from 335 Mira is touching down on the runway at Araxos AB on October 16th, 2014. [<a href="http://www.airliners.net" target="new">Airliners.net</a> photo by Massimo Rossi]
HAF F-16D block 52 #023 void of unit markings but from 335 Mira is touching down on the runway at Araxos AB on October 16th, 2014. [Airliners.net photo by Massimo Rossi]
HAF F-16C block 52 #014 from 335 Mira is seen landing at Araxos AB on November 3rd, 2010. [Photo by Chris Lofting]
HAF F-16C block 52 #014 from 335 Mira is seen landing at Araxos AB on November 3rd, 2010. [Photo by Chris Lofting]
HAF F-16C block 52 #517 from 337 Mira is parked in a shelter at Larissa AB on June 6th, 2011. [<a href="http://www.airfighters.com" target="new">Airfighters.com</a> photo by Peter Boschert]
HAF F-16C block 52 #517 from 337 Mira is parked in a shelter at Larissa AB on June 6th, 2011. [Airfighters.com photo by Peter Boschert]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-16-news-article5350.html South Korean Air Force F-16 crashes during night training; pilot ejects safely Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:00:00 EST February 25, 2026 (by Lieven Dewitte) - A Republic of Korea Air Force (RoKAF) F-16 fighter jet crashed near Yeongju in North Gyeongsang Province during a nighttime training sortie on February 25, 2026. The pilot safely ejected and was rescued shortly after the incident.
RoKAF F-16D block 52 #01-527 from the 121st FS is coming in for landing with special markings on its tail on March 30th, 2025. [Photo by Chan Hyuk]
RoKAF F-16D block 52 #01-527 from the 121st FS is coming in for landing with special markings on its tail on March 30th, 2025. [Photo by Chan Hyuk]
The single-seat aircraft, assigned to Chungju Air Base, was participating in a routine night exercise when it went down in a non-urban area. Authorities stated that the pilot activated the ejection seat prior to impact and was recovered conscious. He was transported to a medical facility for precautionary examination and was reported to be in stable condition.

Initial reports indicate that contact with the aircraft was lost during the flight, prompting an immediate search-and-rescue response. Emergency services and military personnel secured the crash site, and no civilian injuries or significant property damage were reported.

The Republic of Korea Air Force has launched a formal accident investigation to determine the cause of the crash. At this stage, officials have not indicated whether mechanical malfunction, weather conditions, or operational factors played a role.

South Korea operates a large fleet of F-16 variants, including F-16C/D block 32 aircraft and domestically assembled KF-16 fighters based on the block 52 configuration. The type forms a key pillar of the country]]>’
Night training missions are routine for RoKAF fighter units, which maintain high readiness levels given the security environment on the Korean Peninsula. These sorties typically include advanced navigation, air combat training, and precision strike exercises conducted under low-light conditions.

The previous accident involving a South Korean Air Force was in June 2025, when a ROKAF F-16 crashed Alaska. In that incident, the pilot also ejected safely. While there is no indication that the two events are related, the recurrence of incidents has drawn attention to the demanding operational tempo of modern fighter fleets.

It is also the second F-16 crash reported in less than 24 hours, after a Turkish Air Force jet went down near Balikesir early on February 25, 2026, killing its pilot.

Update 05 March: The two aircraft conducted a ]]>“”’’

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RoKAF F-16C block 52 #93-073 from 111 FS is coming in for landing at Suwon AB. [Photo by Hans Jacobs]
RoKAF F-16C block 52 #93-073 from 111 FS is coming in for landing at Suwon AB. [Photo by Hans Jacobs]
RoKAF F-16C block 52 #93-054 from the 19th FW taxis to the runway at Jungwon AB during Buddy Wing 15-6 on July 8th, 2015. [USAF photo by SSgt. Nick Wilson]
RoKAF F-16C block 52 #93-054 from the 19th FW taxis to the runway at Jungwon AB during Buddy Wing 15-6 on July 8th, 2015. [USAF photo by SSgt. Nick Wilson]
RoKAF F-16C block 52s from the 123rd TFS at Seosan AB arrive at Kunsan AB for Exercise Buddy Wing 15-4 on June 1st, 2015. Buddy Wing exercises are held multiple times throughout the year at various US and RoKAF bases to sharpen combined air combat tactics on the peninsula. [USAF photo by SSgt. Nick Wilson]
RoKAF F-16C block 52s from the 123rd TFS at Seosan AB arrive at Kunsan AB for Exercise Buddy Wing 15-4 on June 1st, 2015. Buddy Wing exercises are held multiple times throughout the year at various US and RoKAF bases to sharpen combined air combat tactics on the peninsula. [USAF photo by SSgt. Nick Wilson]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-16-news-article5349.html Turkish F-16 crash in Balıkesir claims pilot’s life Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:00:00 EST February 25, 2026 (by Lieven Dewitte) - A Turkish Air Force F-16 crashed shortly after takeoff from Bal]]>ı
TuAF F-16C block 50 #07-1005 from 181 Filo is coming in for landing at RAF Lossiemouth on April 11th, 2016 during exercise Joint Warrior. [<a href="http://www.airliners.net" target="new">Airliners.net</a> photo by Mike Macdonald]
According to initial reports, the aircraft departed from the 9th Main Jet Base Command in Bal]]>ıı
Turkish authorities stated that radio contact and radar tracking were lost within minutes of departure, around 00:56 local time. Search-and-rescue teams were immediately dispatched, and the wreckage was subsequently located. The pilot did not survive the crash.

No information has yet been released regarding the specific F-16 variant involved or the identity of the pilot. The cause of the accident remains under investigation, and officials have not indicated whether mechanical failure, weather conditions, or other factors may have contributed.

The 9th Main Jet Base Command at Bal]]>ı’Turkey operates one of the largest F-16 fleets in NATO, with a mix of block 30, block 40, and block 50 aircraft forming the backbone of the country]]>’
Turkish F-16s are routinely tasked with air policing, training, and operational missions across the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Black Sea regions. The fleet is currently undergoing modernization efforts under Turkey]]>’
The crash follows a few other fatal F-16 accidents worldwide in recent months. In January, a Taiwanese F-16 was lost at sea during a routine mission after the pilot ejected offshore and was reported missing. In August, a Polish F-16 crashed during rehearsals for an air show, resulting in the pilot]]>’
In a separate incident last November, Turkey temporarily suspended flights of its C-130 transport aircraft following a fatal crash in Georgia.

Further updates on the Bal]]>ı

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]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-16-news-article5348.html Slovakia exploring purchase of four additional F-16 Block 70 fighter Wed, 18 Feb 2026 00:00:00 EST February 18, 2026 (by Lieven Dewitte) - Slovakia is holding discussions with the United States about acquiring four additional F-16 fighter jets, potentially expanding its future fleet from 14 to 18 aircraft.
VS OOSR F-16C block 70 #1010 has just retracted its gear upon takeoff for a test sortie at Greenville IAP on November 10th, 2025. [Photo by Roger Metz]
VS OOSR F-16C block 70 #1010 has just retracted its gear upon takeoff for a test sortie at Greenville IAP on November 10th, 2025. [Photo by Roger Metz]
Prime Minister Robert Fico confirmed the talks after meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on February 15. According to Fico, increasing the fleet size would strengthen Slovakia]]>’
Bratislava has relied on neighboring NATO members, including the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland, to conduct air-policing missions in recent years. Slovak officials have indicated that expanding the F-16 fleet would allow the country to fully assume those responsibilities once its new aircraft are operational.

Slovakia ordered 14 F-16 Block 70/72 aircraft in 2018, consisting of 12 single-seat F-16C models and two twin-seat F-16D variants. Production of the final aircraft in that batch was completed in December 2025 by Lockheed Martin.

The need for allied air-policing support followed Slovakia]]>’–Ukraine. Those Soviet-era aircraft were donated to support Kyiv]]>’’
If approved, the additional four F-16s would further standardize Slovakia]]>’
No timeline has yet been announced for a potential contract amendment.

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VS OOSR F-16C block 70 #1011 is strolling past the lens void of unit markings. [Photo by Falcon Spotter]
VS OOSR F-16C block 70 #1011 is strolling past the lens void of unit markings. [Photo by Falcon Spotter]
VS OOSR F-16C block 70 #1005 is retracting its gear upon takeoff for a test sortie at Greenville IAP in January of 2025. [Photo by Charlie Rucinski]
VS OOSR F-16C block 70 #1005 is retracting its gear upon takeoff for a test sortie at Greenville IAP in January of 2025. [Photo by Charlie Rucinski]
VS OOSR F-16C block 70 #1004 is retracting its gear upon takeoff for a test sortie at Greenville IAP on December 4th, 2024. [Photo by Brady Ensley]
VS OOSR F-16C block 70 #1004 is retracting its gear upon takeoff for a test sortie at Greenville IAP on December 4th, 2024. [Photo by Brady Ensley]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-16-news-article5347.html Denmark bids farewell to F-16 after 46 years of service Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:00:00 EST January 19, 2026 (by Lieven Dewitte) - Denmark's Royal Danish Air Force (RDAF) has officially retired its F-16 fleet following 46 years of dedicated service, marking a significant milestone in the nation's aviation history.
Farewell flight of the RDAF F-16 by #E-018, #E-605 and #ET-612 with the white cliffs of Møns Klint showing in the background. E-018 is one of the aircraft transferred to the Argentine Air Force. [Forsvaret photo]
Farewell flight of the RDAF F-16 by #E-018, #E-605 and #ET-612 with the white cliffs of Møns Klint showing in the background. E-018 is one of the aircraft transferred to the Argentine Air Force. [Forsvaret photo]
The phaseout ceremony on 18 January 2026 at Skrydstrup Air Base featured a final formation flight by three aircraft (E-018, E-605, and ET-612) and a ceremonial landing at 13:57h by F-16AM E-008; still in the old camouflage scheme, made the final official landing of a Danish F-16. , attended by dignitaries including former Chief of Defense Gen. Christian Hvidt.]]>​
Denmark joined the F-16 program in the late 1970s as one of four original European Participating Air Forces (EPAF) alongside Belgium, the Netherlands, and Norway, acquiring 77 F-16A/B Block 1/15 aircraft to replace older types like the F-100 Super Sabre, F-104G Starfighter, and Saab Draken. The jets underwent the Mid-Life Update (MLU) program, upgrading 61 to F-16AM/BM standards with local modifications in Aalborg, including unique Terma Pylon Integrated Dispenser Stations (PIDS) for enhanced self-protection. Danish F-16s logged extensive combat hours in NATO missions, including operations over Yugoslavia (1999), Afghanistan (2002-03, 2014-16), Libya (2011), and Baltic/Iceland air policing.
]]>​ The F-16's retirement aligns with the RDAF's full transition to the F-35A Lightning II, now Denmark's sole fixed-wing combat aircraft, with orders increased from 27 to 43 jets in response to calls for higher defense spending. All F-35s are slated for full operational capability by 2027, emphasizing superior sensor fusion and multi-domain awareness over fourth-generation fighters. Recent deployments, such as two F-35s to Greenland with French tanker support in January 2026, underscore the platform's Arctic readiness amid geopolitical tensions.

Retired F-16s remain airworthy for extended service elsewhere, with 19 donated to Ukraine]]>——Argentina, the first six delivered in December 2025. These transfers, approved by the U.S. State Department, extend the legacy of Denmark's well-maintained fleet, including retained Terma pylons on Ukrainian examples.

With the exception of Portugal, the other EPAF nations have selected the F-35 as the F-16]]>’

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Farewell flight of the RDAF F-16s #E-018, #E-605 and #ET-612 passing over Kronborg castle at Helsingør on January 18th, 2026. [Forsvaret photo]
Farewell flight of the RDAF F-16s #E-018, #E-605 and #ET-612 passing over Kronborg castle at Helsingør on January 18th, 2026. [Forsvaret photo]
Farewell flight of the RDAF F-16 with airframes #E-018, #E-605 and #ET-612 flying together on January 18th, 2026. [Forsvaret photo]
Farewell flight of the RDAF F-16 with airframes #E-018, #E-605 and #ET-612 flying together on January 18th, 2026. [Forsvaret photo]
RDAF F-16AM #E-008 is coming in for landing at Aalborg AB on March 14th, 2005. [Photo by Erik Frikke]
RDAF F-16AM #E-008 is coming in for landing at Aalborg AB on March 14th, 2005. [Photo by Erik Frikke]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-16-news-article5346.html Taiwanese F-16V crashes off Hualien during night training; pilot missing Wed, 07 Jan 2026 00:00:00 EST January 7, 2026 (by Lieven Dewitte) - A Republic of China Air Force (RoCAF) F-16V fighter jet has crashed into the sea off Taiwan]]>’
RoCAF F-16A block 20 #6700 from the 23rd TFG is flying over Hsin-Chu AFB on April 26th, 2008. [<a href="http://www.asia-image.com" target="new">A.S.I.A. Archives Images</a> photo by MacPhil Wen]
RoCAF F-16A block 20 #6700 from the 23rd TFG is flying over Hsin-Chu AFB on April 26th, 2008. [A.S.I.A. Archives Images photo by MacPhil Wen]
The incident involving serial number 6700 highlights the challenges of night operations in rough weather and comes amid heightened regional tensions. Search and rescue efforts continue under difficult conditions, while the entire F-16 fleet has been grounded pending investigation.

The single-seat F-16V, assigned to the 5th Tactical Fighter Wing at Hualien Air Base, took off at 18:17 local time on 6 January 2026 for a standard night training sortie as wingman in a two-ship formation. At 19:27, the pilot reported losing contact with the lead aircraft ("TULOS") while at 7,600 feet in clouds; less than a minute later, at 19:28, Captain Hsin Po-yi reported a continuous descent through 4,000 feet.

He declared his intent to eject three times starting at 19:28:22 while at 2,600 feet, with flight data recording the automated "EJECT, EJECT, EJECT" alarm; radar contact was lost at 19:29:30 when the jet was at just 170 feet, roughly 10 nautical miles (18 km) east of Fengbin Township in Hualien County. President Lai Ching-te immediately directed a full-scale search and rescue operation, activating air force, coast guard, navy and civilian assets including C-130s, UH-60 Black Hawks, vessels and nearby fishing boats.

Captain Hsin Po-yi (]]>辛柏毅MMC), which disabled the flight path display and left the pilot disoriented in instrument meteorological conditions at night. The aircraft, originally an F-16A delivered under the 1990s Peace Phoenix program, had been upgraded to F-16V Block 20/70 standard by early 2024 and had logged around 3,894 hours with no major recent issues after routine maintenance.

Rescue operations face 3-meter swells, gale-force winds, low temperatures and poor visibility, complicating efforts despite illumination flares from C-130s and deployment of a Keelung-class destroyer. No emergency locator beacon from the ejection seat has been detected, leaving uncertainty over whether ejection actually occurred, though the pilot followed procedures correctly amid risks like spatial disorientation and controlled flight into terrain. Defense Minister Wellington Koo and Air Force leadership are overseeing the response from Hualien, with Premier Cho Jung-tai mobilizing coast guard support.

Taiwan operates around 140 upgraded F-16Vs from an original 150 F-16A/Bs, forming the backbone of its air defense against frequent PLA incursions; full operational capability was declared in 2021. The fleet has seen prior losses, including a 2022 F-16V crash that killed its pilot, but remains central to deterrence amid recent PRC exercises like "Justice Mission 2025." New-build Block 70/72 F-16s are in production at Lockheed Martin]]>’RoCAF F-16s are now grounded for inspections to ensure airworthiness.

According to Taiwan's Air Force, the pilot has clocked a total flight time of 611 hours, including 371 hours flying the F-16V.

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The first F-16 of the latest Taiwanese order of 66 airframes is this F-16D block 70 #6831 strolling past the camera on December 20th, 2025. [CNA photo]
The first F-16 of the latest Taiwanese order of 66 airframes is this F-16D block 70 #6831 strolling past the camera on December 20th, 2025. [CNA photo]
RoCAF F-16A block 72 #93-0776 assigned to the 162nd Wing lands at Sioux City AP where the aircraft will be painted at the Air National Guard paint facility on August 6st, 2024. [ANG photo by SMSgt. Vincent De Groot]
RoCAF F-16A block 72 #93-0776 assigned to the 162nd Wing lands at Sioux City AP where the aircraft will be painted at the Air National Guard paint facility on August 6st, 2024. [ANG photo by SMSgt. Vincent De Groot]
RoCAF F-16A block 72V is still in primer when going for a test flight after conversion on December 16th, 2022. [Photo by Tsungfang Tsai]
RoCAF F-16A block 72V is still in primer when going for a test flight after conversion on December 16th, 2022. [Photo by Tsungfang Tsai]
]]> https://www.f-16.net/f-16-news-article5344.html Turkish F-16s shoot down stray drone over the Black Sea Thu, 18 Dec 2025 00:00:00 EST December 18, 2025 (by Lieven Dewitte) - Turkish Air Force F-16s intercepted and destroyed an unmanned aerial vehicle over the Black Sea after it approached Turkish airspace, the country]]>’
TuAF F-16D block 40 #89-0044 from 151 Filo is taking off from Konya AB on May 10th, 2023 during exercise Anatolian Eagle. [Photo by Bob Fernandes]
TuAF F-16D block 40 #89-0044 from 151 Filo is taking off from Konya AB on May 10th, 2023 during exercise Anatolian Eagle. [Photo by Bob Fernandes]
According to the official statement, the drone was assessed to be ]]>“”’
The interception took place over international waters in the Black Sea, underscoring Turkey]]>’’’
The incident comes amid heightened drone activity in the Black Sea, where unmanned systems have increasingly been used for reconnaissance and strike missions. Turkey has expressed growing concern about incidents occurring near or within its exclusive economic zone, particularly following recent attacks on commercial shipping linked to Russia]]>’“”
While Ankara has maintained diplomatic channels with both Russia and Ukraine, the Turkish military continues to enforce strict airspace security measures. The shootdown highlights the role of the F-16 as Turkey]]>’
No further details have been released, and Turkish authorities indicated that the incident remains under review.

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TuAF F-16D block 50 #07-1027 from 161 Filo is touching down on the runway at Konya AB. [Photo by Ataberk Ozsoy]
TuAF F-16D block 50 #07-1027 from 161 Filo is touching down on the runway at Konya AB. [Photo by Ataberk Ozsoy]
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