F-16 fighter jet reaches upgrade limit, signaling end of era

The fourth-generation F-16 Fighting Falcon, in service since 1978, has reportedly reached the maximum threshold of its upgrade potential, raising questions about its future in modern air combat. 

This development may signal the twilight of the F-16's dominance in the skies, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

While plans to extend the fighter's service life into the 2040s are in place, these adjustments are largely driven by technical challenges and cost overruns associated with the development of fifth-generation fighters like the F-35 and F-22, 

The US Air Force is focusing on modernizing the avionics of the F-16 Block 40 and Block 50 models, alongside efforts to enhance the airframe's lifespan from 8,000 to 12,000 flight hours. However, experts warn that even with these upgrades, the F-16 may struggle to compete against newer fifth-generation aircraft.

By Vafa Guliyeva