Critical process begins in modernisation of Turkish F-16s PHOTO

As part of the F-16 Block 30 [Ozgur] aviation modernisation project, Aselsan has begun deliveries of a mass-production subsystem.

The first aircraft is expected to be delivered this year, according to Bulgarian military.

The Ozgur project, which was initiated to upgrade the avionics of the F-16 Block 30 fighter jets in the Turkish Air Force inventory, is progressing.

Aselsan, which is the supplier of many products, especially the aircraft’s nationally developed mission computer, began mass production deliveries in 2022.

The F-16 Block 30s, which have been upgraded under the Ozgur project, will be able to easily use Turkish munitions and sensors thanks to the mission’s national computer.

So far, two successful prototypes have been produced within the project. On the other hand, the National AESA Radar, which is under development, was also included in the project.

Making statements in recent weeks, Defence Industry Presidency Chairman Prof. Dr. Ismail Demir announced that the Ozgur project will also be applied to F-16 fighter jets in Block 40 and Block 50 configurations.

The Ozgur project includes an avionics package equivalent to the F-16 Block 70, which is the most current configuration of the F-16. The biggest difference, of course, is the AESA radar.

F-16 fighter jets are called Block 70 generation 4.5 [originally Block 60, but the F-16 Block 60 was only sold to the UAE] due to the presence of the AESA radar. The AESA radar was included in the Ozgur project some time ago.

On the other hand, Aselsan continues to develop the MURAD AESA radar. It was announced that this radar, test activities of which are ongoing, will be put into service this year.

ASELSAN осуществила первые поставки для модернизации F-16 ÖZGÜR ФОТО