The Taiwan Air Force F-16 Viper Fighter Jet
International Military - After China showed its strength by holding military exercises in the border area, Taiwan did not want to lose its competitiveness. On Wednesday (17/8/2022), Taiwan held an air military exercise and showcased its advanced fighter jet, the F-16V, at the Hualien regional air base.
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Seen, as many as six fighter jets took off in the air, with two of them equipped with missiles. The F-16 Viper fighter jet or commonly abbreviated as F-16V is an aircraft made in the United States (US) produced by Loockhead Martin Corp.
The aircraft is designed to be at the forefront with advanced systems that provide advanced combat capabilities. Compared to the previous F-16 fighter, the F-16V fighter jet provides an increase in its combat capabilities.
At the heart of the F-16V upgrade lies in its Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. This radar is controlled automatically and its range is three to five times greater than ordinary radar. AESA is able to create Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) mapping with high resolution and is able to perform precise tracking in all weather, both day and night.
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In addition, improvements to the F-16V are also found in the new Center Pedestal Display (CPD). This instrument is capable of providing the pilot with a high-resolution 6x8 inch screen that maximizes AESA and targeting pod performance. The new CPD also provides color display, easier management, and provides a digital display of Flight Instrument Data with an air-to-air situation view.
This advanced technology is also compatible with Night Vision Imaging Systems. In addition to these two things, the next important thing is technology that allows the aircraft to remain hidden and has resistance to jamming. In addition to a sophisticated radar, the F-16V is also equipped with a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) avionics subsystem and a high-speed, high-volume data bus.
As for operational capability, the aircraft provides an upgrade with the Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System (Auto GCAS), Loockhead Martin targeting pod, advanced weapons, and precise GPS navigation.
In carrying out the mission, the F-16V fighter jet is also equipped with more compatible computer devices. The Link-16 data link is the latest device to be added to this aircraft. This system is key in increasing air situational awareness. Of course, this further adds to the value of the pilot's safety while flying. In addition, the Link-16 provides navigation capabilities and precise location and identification.