Royal Jordanian Air Force's INSANE Upgrade! F-16 Fleet Expansion and Block 70 Aircraft Unveiled!

In a significant development aimed at strengthening its combat capabilities, the Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF) is strategically expanding its F-16 Fighting Falcon fleet. This expansion is formalized as Lockheed Martin solidifies a contract for the procurement of 12 Block 70 aircraft, transitioning from the previously accepted letter of acceptance (LOA). Recent updates, announced on January 11, highlight an increase in the initial Block 70 aircraft agreement from eight to 12, demonstrating the RJAF's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities.

The RJAF, currently operating a total of 64 F-16A/B aircraft, is in the process of rejuvenating its fleet. Among these, 16 are ADFs, and the remaining 39 have either been modified to MLU standard or are MLUs. This fleet upgrade involves integrating advanced AESA-equipped aircraft, marking a substantial advancement in combat capability.

A pivotal aspect of this enhancement is the adoption of the General Electric F100-GE-129D afterburning turbofan jet engine, setting these aircraft apart from the Pratt & Whitney F100-PW229EEP engine used in the Block 72 variant. The F100-GE-129D engine shares an impressive 81% parts commonality with the F110-GE-100, acknowledged as the safest single-engine powerplant in U.S. Air Force history in its class. Its advanced capabilities include providing over 30% additional thrust during critical low-altitude combat operations.

The recent contract amendment, superseding the earlier agreement for eight F-16s, underscores Jordan's commitment to military deterrence and strengthening joint operations with the United States. The initial acquisition of 12 aircraft is set to be delivered in a "first phase," with the possibility of additional F-16 purchases in the future. Specific details regarding the distribution between F-16C single-seaters and F-16D two-seaters in the initial tranche have not been disclosed.

The Block 70/72 configuration introduces advanced features to the RJAF's operational capabilities, including an active electronically-scanned antenna radar, infrared search and track, modern avionics, and a robust 12,000-hour airframe. This signifies a significant leap forward compared to the RJAF's existing F-16 fleet.

The U.S. State Department's approval, issued on February 3 of the previous year, covers the supply of 12 F-16Cs and four F-16Ds in the Block 72 configuration. This comprehensive package includes Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229EEP engines, Northrop Grumman APG-83 Scalable Agile Beam Radars, spare engines, radars, M61A1 Vulcan 20-mm rotary cannons, Lockheed Martin AAQ-33 Sniper targeting pods, and a comprehensive defensive systems suite.

The Royal Jordanian Air Force's commitment to enhancing its combat capabilities through the expansion of its F-16 fleet and the procurement of advanced Block 70 aircraft represents a crucial step in strengthening regional security and military readiness. This strategic move underscores the RJAF's dedication to maintaining a formidable defense posture independently.