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F16 Fighting Falcon
The F-16 Fighting Falcon
is a modern multi-role jet fighter aircraft
built in the United States. Designed as a
lightweight fighter, it evolved into a successful
multi-role aircraft. The F-16 was developed
by General Dynamics. In 1993 General Dynamics
sold its aircraft manufacturing business to
the Lockheed Corporation, now Lockheed Martin.
The Falcon's versatility is a paramount reason
it was a success on the export market, and
is serving 24 countries. It is the largest
and probably most significant Western fighter
program, with over 4000 aircraft built. Though
no longer produced for the United States Air
Force, it is still produced for export. The
F-16 is one of the most famous fighters in
the world, with a rakish silhouette and a
fearsome reputation.
The Fighting Falcon is regarded as a superb
dogfighter, with innovations such as the bubble
canopy, side-mounted control stick, and reclined
seat. It was also the first US fighter aircraft
to match the English Electric Lightning's
ability to execute 9 g turns. Although the
F-16's official popular name is "Fighting
Falcon", it is known to its pilots as
the "Viper", the General Dynamics
codename for the project during its early
development.
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