USAF will upgrade F-16s ' computers to keep venerable Falcon fighters flying until the 2040s — popular 4th generation aircraft will have flown almost seven decades by the time they retire
The F-16 first flew in 1974, and the US Air Force is now shopping for a brand-new brain to keep its Vipers relevant into the 2040s.
The United States Air Force is seeking a Next-Generation Mission Compute system to replace the modular mission computer in its F-16 Fighting Falcon jets. The upgrade, planned for the Block 40, 42, 50, and 52 models, aims to keep the aircraft flying until the 2040s. The new system would be a more modular, software-defined design built on the Modular Open Systems Approach and the Sensor Open Systems Architecture standards.
The Air Force prefers commercial off-the-shelf modules, modular hardware, and the ability to swap in future processors and storage upgrades from various suppliers. The upgrade must be drop-in compatible with existing space and wiring, and it must retain the legacy Operational Flight Program software. The AI component is also a requirement, allowing for expanded processing, storage, GPU, and AI/ML resources.
The F-16 has a service life planned to extend into the 2040s, and it is expected to continue serving in other allied air forces as well.
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