Forum: F-16 News

This is a discussion topic for the F-16.net news article: "First flight of Chilean F-16". You can read the full forum discussion in the F-16.net forum.

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Today , the first F-16 for Chili was flown

Tail # 02-0851

First flight took off 1015 CST at Ft Worth, TX.

It went so well, we flew it in the pm too. So we did two flights today.

Could I please ask what happens during the months between roll out and first flight, specially for a stock standard F-16 block 50+ (the chilean F-16 is, isn't it?). It just seems a long period. Thanks in advance. By the way, thanks for the news, I have been waiting for it

For the roll out VL-1 wasn't actually complete. It was just assembled. After the ceremony it had to have normal fuel and production (flightline) ops done on it. Also, the jet is instrumented do instrumentation was doing some things as well. Finally software had to be approved for flight. Thats why so long. Normally its about 2 or 3 weeks from final to flight.

Thanks YAIFW, that clarifies it. Do you know when deliveries will start and when they will be sent to chile?
regards

F-16VIPER wrote:

Could I please ask what happens during the months between roll out and first flight, specially for a stock standard F-16 block 50+ (the chilean F-16 is, isn't it?). It just seems a long period. Thanks in advance. By the way, thanks for the news, I have been waiting for it

Also, you have to do EMI, clean and with new weapons.

F-16VIPER wrote:

Thanks YAIFW, that clarifies it. Do you know when deliveries will start and when they will be sent to chile?
regards

The first aircraft is always a test aircraft. After several more flights it goes to Edwards AFB. The next 2 aircraft are for maintenance training

A little bird said first deliveries are in November.

I can imagine also that some tests will need to be carried out to verify release of the Python and Derby missiles. Is that required or it is normally assumed that the plane will fire the missiles. Thanks to the little bird for the info.

My god! Finally we can see it fly!

Different and unique paint scheme, I like it, very nice. Hope they have good, highly qualifed individuals to fly and support these great ships.

The Southamerican scenario is becoming more interesting now. F-16C block 50+ from Chile, Mig-29s and Mirage 2000Ps from Peru...... Uhmmm that is it.

thanks for the photos. great looking camouflage scheme.

Does anyone info or pics of the first Two Seater Peace Puma? Pics or info needed Rolling Eyes

Regards