In recent hours, an image has gone viral showing the progress in the assembly work of the first F-16 Fighting Falcon of the Argentine Air Force. This aircraft, designated as “number 25,” is the first unit acquired under the contract for the purchase of 24 F-16A/B MLU from Denmark and is intended for pilot and crew training purposes.

Regarding the known details of the two-seat aircraft in question, it is an F-16B Block 10 that is not in flying condition, primarily serving as a training platform for Argentine pilots, support crews, and technical personnel on the new combat platform. The aircraft arrived in December through two shipments transported from Denmark by two K/C-130H Hercules aircraft of the I Air Brigade, El Palomar.

Looking ahead, the aircraft is expected to be used for “…scheduled inspections, work cards, weapon and launch system configuration, handling of the new logistics software, engine replacement, removal of the canopy and ejection seats, fuel and hydraulic system inspection and regulation, as well as familiarization with the electrical and avionics systems, among other tasks, thus introducing personnel to a new work culture and philosophy,” as detailed by the Ministry of Defense last December.

Following its arrival at the VI Air Brigade in Tandil, Buenos Aires Province, assembly work began under the supervision of Argentine Air Force personnel. Subsequently, the arrival of another shipment included in the package was confirmed, with images and videos revealing the reception of CATM-120B training missiles and TER-9A pylons. Additionally, the arrival of Danish technical personnel was confirmed to support the aircraft’s assembly process.

As evidenced by the recently circulated image, the F-16B Block 10 appears to be almost fully assembled, with CATM-120B training missiles visible on the wingtips. However, the image quality does not allow for further details to be discerned at this time.

Despite the recorded progress, both the Argentine Air Force and the Ministry of Defense remain tight-lipped regarding an estimated date for the official unveiling of the aircraft. This event will mark the formal beginning of the F-16’s incorporation into the institution, with the first F-16 MLU Block 15 aircraft expected to arrive by the end of 2025.

Cover photo credits to the rightful owner.

Publicidad

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