The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) received its first F-16 C/D aircraft at a Roll-Out Ceremony this morning, 9 Apr 98, at the Lockheed Martin Tactical Aircraft System (LMTAS) Fort Worth plant in Texas, USA. The Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant-General (LT-GEN) Bey Soo Khiang received a plaque from Mr Dain Hancock, the President of LMTAS, symbolising the delivery of the aircraft to the RSAF.
The event marks a significant milestone in the development of the RSAF, with the addition of the F-16C/D into the RSAF Order Of Battle (ORBAT) representing a quantum leap in the capability of the RSAF. The F-16C/D rolled out is the first of Singapore's purchase of a full squadron of 18 F-16C/Ds in 1994 as part of the on-going modernisation of the RSAF. Some of the F-16C/Ds will be stationed in the United States for RSAF pilot continuation training under the Peace Carvin Programme.
F-16D of the RSAF (photo : Air Force Link)The F-16C/D is among the most sophisticated and advanced multi-role fighters in the world. Equipped with avionics for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat roles, the F-16C/D carries a wide range of ordnance such as the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, Maverick air-to-ground missiles and laser-guided bombs. It is also equipped with a sophisticated radar, advanced avionics and a precision navigation system using the Global Positioning System (GPS). The F-16C/D was selected by the RSAF as it is the most cost-effective aircraft to meet Singapore's defence and security needs. It also satisfies the RSAF's requirements in terms of operations, life-cycle costs, logistic supportability and prospects for upgrade in the future.
Under the Peace Carvin programme, the RSAF Detachment has since 1996 been training with the experienced USAF, including participating in various USAF training programmes, exercises and competitions. The training in a realistic environment has allowed the RSAF to build up its operational and logistics capabilities to take full advantage of the F-16C/Ds being delivered to the air force.
Following the Roll-Out Ceremony, LT-GEN Bey and guests watched a F-16C/D flight demonstration, and then went on a tour of the LMTAS factory.
Sumber : Mindef
Under the Peace Carvin programme, the RSAF Detachment has since 1996 been training with the experienced USAF, including participating in various USAF training programmes, exercises and competitions. The training in a realistic environment has allowed the RSAF to build up its operational and logistics capabilities to take full advantage of the F-16C/Ds being delivered to the air force.
Following the Roll-Out Ceremony, LT-GEN Bey and guests watched a F-16C/D flight demonstration, and then went on a tour of the LMTAS factory.
Sumber : Mindef
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