Boeing to convert F-16 jet fighters into full scale aerial targets

Boeing has won a modification contract from the U.S. Air Force (USAF) to manufacture QF-16 full-scale aerial target (“FSAT”) Lot 5A.

The contract is valued at $24.7 million. It was awarded by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Eglin Air Force Base, FL.

Per the contract, Boeing will provide 18 QF-16 FSATs and 18 related four-year warranties for the QF-16 drone-peculiar equipment program.

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Work is scheduled to be completed by Apr 27, 2027 and will be executed in St. Louis, MO. The contract will use fiscal 2017 procurement funds.

The QF-16 Full Scale Aerial Target will provide the next generation of combat training and testing for U.S. warfighters. Retired F-16 aircraft are converted into QF-16 aerial targets for the purpose of testing newly developed weapons and tactics. The QF-16 will replace the existing QF-4 fleet, and provide a higher capability, fourth generation aerial target that is more representative of today’s targets and threats.

QF-16 Technical Specifications

Primary Function Full-scale aerial target
Contractor The Boeing Company
Power Plant F-16A/C: one Pratt and Whitney F100-PW-200/220/229 or General Electric F110-GE-100/129
F-16 Maneuverability Fully maintained, including supersonic speeds and 9g turns
Radar Cross Section 4 to 4.5 generation capability
Countermeasures F-16 chaff & flares; EA pods, ALQ-188 & ALQ-167
120nm GRDCS datalink Improved TVI clock/position, data latency, and frequency stability
Weapon Accuracy Scoring Improved Doppler system
Range Safety Flight termination qualified to RCC-319

 

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About author:

Dylan Malyasov
Dylan Malyasov
Dylan Malyasov is the editor-in-chief of Defence Blog. He is a journalist, an accredited defense advisor, and a consultant. His background as a defense advisor and consultant adds a unique perspective to his journalistic endeavors, ensuring that his reporting is well-informed and authoritative. read more

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