First F-16 Block 70 Fighters Head to Bahrain

Preflight checks are completed on Bahrain’s F-16 Block 70 single-seat fighter jet in preparation for its ferry flight from Lockheed Martin’s facility in Greenville, South Carolina, on Wednesday. [Courtesy: Lockheed Martin]

The first Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70s departed the U.S. for Bahrain on Wednesday, making the Persian Gulf island country the first Gulf Cooperation Council member to operate the fighter jets.

The ferry cell of aircraft left Lockheed Martin's facility in Greenville, South Carolina, on Wednesday, and are among the 19-21 jets produced at the facility that the company anticipates delivering this year.

The 4.5 generation fighters are equipped with APG-83 AESA radar, advanced avionics, and modernized cockpit. The aircraft also feature advancements, such as conformal fuel tanks, offering extended flight range, and automatic ground collision avoidance system.

Three F-16 Block 70 fighter jets prepare for their ferry flight to Bahrain, awaiting departure from Greenville, South Carolina, on Wednesday. [Courtesy: Lockheed Martin]

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“With the introduction of the F-16 Block 70, we are witnessing a significant leap in fighter capabilities,” said OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager of the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin. “The integration of this proven platform will allow the Royal Bahraini Air Force to safeguard its skies effectively and partner with allies worldwide.”

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Lockheed Martin has produced five F-16 Block 70 aircraft, dubbed the Fighting Falcon, for the Royal Bahraini Air Force, with 11 more in various stages of testing and production. The initial aircraft are at Edwards Air Force Base, California, where they are undergoing flight testing, Lockheed Martin said.

A two-seat F-16 Block 70 takes off from Lockheed Martin's Greenville, South Carolina, facility Wednesday en route to Bahrain, where the Royal Bahraini Air Force will be the first to operate the F-16 Fighting Falcon. [Courtesy: Lockheed Martin]