The U.S. Air Force is preparing to replace the mission computer aboard its older F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets, as it seeks to keep the aircraft operational into the 2040s.
F-16 Fighting Falcon
Portugal is weighing the F-35A against the Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale and Saab Gripen E as it considers replacing its aging F-16 fleet. The decision will depend on operational capability, lifecycle costs, NATO interoperability, industrial benefits and long-term defense strategy.
The first F-16 Block 72 fighter built for the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) has completed its maiden flight, opening the next stage of a major program to modernize Morocco’s combat aircraft fleet and strengthen its future airpower capabilities.
Dassault Aviation has formally entered the race to replace Portugal’s aging F-16 fighter fleet, submitting the Rafale to the Portuguese government and Air Force as Lisbon prepares for one of its most important military aircraft procurement decisions.
Belgium has received three additional Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II fighters at Florennes Air Base, expanding its in-country fifth-generation fleet to seven aircraft.
A US Air Force F-16 assigned to the 52nd Fighter Wing crashed during approach to Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany on September 22, 2026. The pilot ejected safely and received medical treatment as German and US emergency teams responded. The cause remained under investigation.
A US Air Force F-16 from the 149th Fighter Wing crashed in Blair Township, Michigan. The pilot ejected safely and was reported in stable condition. ATC audio indicated a possible bird strike, while Grand Traverse County issued a shelter-in-place order for residents near the crash site.
The U.S. destroyed five Iranian oil tankers after repeated missile attacks on a Navy warship. Iran retaliated against Jordan as Washington deployed more F-35s and F-16s and expanded sanctions targeting Iran’s aviation network.
Taiwan receives its first F-16V Block 70 fighter jets from the US as long-delayed deliveries officially begin.
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) scrambled F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets on July 19, 2026, after more than 10 general aviation aircraft violated Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) airspace over Bedminster and East Rutherford, New Jersey.