The fighters are expected to be in the same configuration as those ordered last year, featuring conformal fuel tanks providing a 1,100km (600nm) combat radius, and the Northrop Grumman APG-68V(X) synthetic aperture radar.
The original order included 60 options; 52 fighters are expected to be included in the follow-on deal.
Deliveries of the first 50 aircraft are due to start in 2003. If the option is exercised by early next year, deliveries of the additional F-16Is will begin in 2005. Money for the order is earmarked in US annual military funds for Israel until 2008. Under the agreement, Israel is liable to pay a $190 million penalty if it does not exercise the option.
Source: Flight International
