SPECIAL REPORT INDUSTRY ALL DIGITAL: THE F-16IN COCKPIT REDUCES WORKLOAD OF PILOTS; (BELOW) AESA RADAR MOUNTED ON F-16IN NOSE
Net-Centric Warfare Capability The fusion of net-centric operations and onboard data provides a total battle space picture and optimises mission accomplishment. The F-16 was the first multi-role fighter to incorporate a data link capability, and the IAF’s operational data link (ODL) can be integrated onto the F-16IN in order to ensure interoperability with other IAF aircraft. Modern, all-digital glass cockpit The pilots receive easy-to-interpret information via the all-digital cockpit and helmet-mounted cueing system. The large colour displays are capable of fusing data from on-and-off-board sensors, reducing the workload and enabling the pilot to focus on the mission. Advanced Survivability Features The low radar signature of the F-16IN reduces detection by enemy radars. Its single-engine design has smaller infrared and visual signature than twin-engine fighters. The internal electronic warfare system avoids or defeats the most advanced threats. Superior agility and excellent pilot situational awareness reduce vulnerability to attack, while critical systems redundancy and shielding enhance survivability. Enhanced High Thrust Engine The F-16IN offers the highest thrust engine in the competition, the General Electric F110-132A. It has 32,000 Ibs of thrust with an unprecedented record of safety, reliability, maintainability and durability. The F110 incorporates the latest technology including full authority digital engine control for maximum fuel efficiency and performance.
operations such as an attack on a surface target or even a resource intensive task such as radar guided terrain. The final benefit of the AESA radar is increased reliability and reduced planned maintenance. 30
SP’S AVIATION
Issue 4 • 2010
Cockpit overview The F-16IN cockpit displays and controls are fully integrated and revamped to quickly convey the information and simplify operations for the pilot. The pilot receives mission and tactical information via the full colour, all digital glass cockpit and a helmet mounted display (HMD). Electronic displays incorporating graphics, digital data and colour alerts replace traditional engine and flight instrumentation speeding up the pilot’s cognitive processing of system status. Proven Combat and Operational Effectiveness: • Over 400,000 combat hours • More air-to-air victories (72-0) • Over 100,000 combat missions flown • Over 2,200,000 ordnance delivered in combat • Over one million operational sorties in support of the global war against terror. SP www.spsaviation.net