The primary mission will likely be intercepting cruise missiles. The F-16C Block 50 that Ukraine is getting was the late 80s and early 90s model. The F-16s the United States flies are the Block 70. The aircraft includes a Honeywell H-423 Ring Laser Gyro Inertial Navigation System (RLG INS) for rapid in-flight alignment; GPS receiver; Data Transfer Cartridge with a larger capacity (128KB) to accommodate the planned avionics growth; Improved Data Modem for faster data transmission; AN/ALR-56M advanced RWR; AN/ALE-47 threat adaptive countermeasure system; digital terrain system data transfer cartridge; cockpit compatible with night vision systems; advanced IFF interrogator; Upgraded Programmable Display Generator (UPDG); MIL-STD-1760 data bus for programming new-generation PGMs; Horizontal Situation Display (HSD) for increased situational awareness and tactical flexibility on all missions.
The Block 50 also carries the Westinghouse AN/APG-68 V(5) radar, which offers longer-range detection against air targets and higher reliability. The radar has a programmable signal processor employing high-speed integrated circuit (VHSIC) technology. The latest batches of Block 50/52 carry the same radar, but versions V(7) and V(8) offer even greater-performance envelopes. The VHF/FM antenna is now incorporated into the leading edge of the vertical fin and has an extended operating distance. The cockpit includes two monochrome MFDs and a FOV HUD.
The Block 50s can fire the AIM-120 AMRAAM, the AGM-65G Maverick missile, and the PGU-28/B 20mm cannon round. The Block 50 can carry JDAM munition, the AGM-154A/B JSOW, and is the first F-16 version to integrate the AGM-84 Harpoon antishipping missile. The aircraft can launch the Harpoon in line-of-sight, bearing-only, and range/bearing modes. The addition of the Harpoon gives the F-16 a significant standoff range anti-shipping capability, especially when combined with optional 600-gallon fuel tanks.
It will go a long way at hurting Russia’s ability to conduct it’s war, but the aircraft alone will not win the war. It won’t be a match for air-to-air in most engagements and shouldn’t be used in that role. SAMs do a better job keeping the Russian air force grounded.
221·11 months ago
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