RoKAF KF-16D used in F-16V upgrade programme

Following modification by Lockheed Martin, KF-16D Fighting Falcon with serial 92-046 has been temporarily assigned to the 416th Flight Test Squadron (FLTS) Skulls of the US Air Force’s 412th Test Wing at Edwards Air Force Base (CA).

While assigned to the unit, the multi-role fighter will be used to test elements of the Republic of Korea Air Force (RoKAF) modernisation and is currently wearing USAF titles and markings.

Lockheed Martin has been awarded a USD 1.2 billion contract to retrofit all 130 of the ROKAF’s KF-16C/D Block 50/52 fighters to the advanced F-16V configuration. The extensive modernisation and upgrades as part of this comprehensive improvement programme includes active electronically scanned array (AESA Radar), Modular Mission Computer, Multi-function Information Distribution System-Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS-JTRS), Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System-II (JHMCS II) and AN/ALR-56M advanced radar warning receiver upgrade, AN/APX-126 combined interrogator transponder and a Center Pedestal Display.

The KF-16C and KF-16D fighters are operated by six Fighter Squadrons and one Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron:

19th Fighter Wing at Chungju/Jungwon K-75
155th Fighter Squadron Rhino

20th Fighter Wing at Seosan/Haemi K-76
120th Fighter Squadron
121st Fighter Squadron
123rd Fighter Squadron
157th Fighter Squadron

38th Fighter Group at Gunsan K-8
111th Fighter Squadron

39th Reconnaissance Wing at Chungju/Jungwon K-75
159th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron Phoenix

For more information on the RoKAF fighter squadrons have a look at South Korea's Air Order of Battle.

Photo: USAF/Ethan Wagner