Ramon Lopez/WASHINGTON DC
US Air Force reserve forces are facing a shortage of Lockheed Martin F-16s as early models of the fighter reach the end of their service life, according to Maj Gen Paul Weaver, director of the Air National Guard (ANG).
"I am very concerned about the fleet because the average age of the F-16 is 20 years," says Weaver. A total of 75 F-16A/Bs operated by ANG units must be retired between 1999 and 2005. He says that as many as 275 older F-16C/Ds may be candidates for a service life extension programme (SLEP).
"A mini-SLEP would permit more flight hours, but not much additional capability. A mid-SLEP gives a lot more capabilities, but pumps up the cost to near that of a brand new F-16," says Weaver. The F-16 problem "-is very much on our [radar] scope. We talk about it daily," he says.
Lockheed Martin is aware of the ANG's shortfall, caused by delays in shifting F-16s from active duty squadrons to reserve units.
The manufacturer believes that the reserve forces will need to replace between 60 and 100 F-16A/Bs with new aircraft early next century.
Source: Flight International
