F-16 Fighting Falcon Block 15 MLU
Type: Multirole Fighter
Domain: air
Country of Origin: United States
Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin
First Deployed: 2026
Overview
American multi-role fighter aircraft procured by Argentina from Denmark representing major capability upgrade following decades of aging fighter fleet and transforming Argentine Air Force into modern force. Argentina purchased 24 F-16AM/BM Block 15 MLU (Mid-Life Upgrade) from Denmark with delivery beginning 2024-2025. The MLU variant represents comprehensive modernization of early F-16 incorporating modern avionics, radar, cockpit, and weapons capability approaching later block standards. Features APG-66(V)2 mechanically-scanned radar, modern glass cockpit with multi-function displays, improved mission computer, Link 16 datalink, night-vision compatible displays, GPS/INS navigation, helmet-mounted cueing system, and capability for modern weapons including AIM-120 AMRAAM beyond-visual-range missiles, AIM-9X Sidewinder, precision-guided bombs, and anti-ship missiles. Maximum speed Mach 2+ with combat radius exceeding 500 km. Argentine F-16s replace obsolete Mirage III/5 fighters and supplement Mirage F1 and IA-63 Pampa aircraft providing credible air defense and strike capability. The acquisition represents pragmatic solution obtaining proven fighters at affordable cost (secondhand) while providing NATO-standard capability enabling potential cooperation with regional allies. Training pipeline established with Danish and US support. Represents Argentine air power renaissance after decades of underinvestment following Falklands War. Future potential upgrades and additional aircraft procurement under consideration.
Technical Specifications
| fleet | 24 ex-Danish aircraft |
|---|---|
| ceiling | 15,240 m |
| armament | 1× M61A1 20mm Vulcan, 9 hardpoints (AIM-120, AIM-9, bombs, AGMs) |
| avionics | MLU upgrade: APG-66(V)2 radar, modern MFDs, Link 16 datalink |
| max_speed | Mach 2.0 |
| manufacturer | General Dynamics / Lockheed Martin |
| combat_radius | ~550 km |
Operators
- Albania
- Argentina
- Denmark
- Egypt
- Pakistan
- Senegal
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