So I noticed in the latest update that the F-16A ADF didn’t get AIM-120s which they had IRL. Sure I get that there needs to be 12.0 fighters for some countries like Italy and USA but Italy purchased the F-16A ADF for the main reason that it could carry AMRAAMs. Couldn’t other F-16s be put into place as 12.0 fighters like the F-16B Block 15 so the ADF could have its proper loadout?
Also I understand that yes, Italy does get the Gripen C now but it kind of feels like its a band-aid over a larger wound. If Italy got its proper vehicles and weapons they wouldn’t need other countries vehicles.
It is a shame. Its sensible that some dont get AMRAAM. But considering the ENTIRE point of Italy leasing the F-16s in the first place was to have AMRAAM as they didnt want to pay for the ADV upgrades necessary, Italy really should get a F-16 with AMRAAM
Definetly a second F-16ADF if there is a genuine gap concern, if not, I would just add it to the current F-16.
In 2001 Italy was getting ready to retire the F-104S and they needed to new air defense fighter but they also wanted to be able to use AMRAAMs. The Tornado ADV upgrade program cost to much to be able to carry AMRAAMs so Italy went to Lockheed Martin to order 30 F-16A ADF Block 15s. At the time though the F-16A ADF Block 15s were not able to carry AMRAAMs which is what Italy needed so Lockheed Martin took the F-16s and took them through a upgrade program named “Falcon Up” and “Falcon 2020” modifications.
This made it possible for the F-16A ADF to carry AMRAAMs.
We know for certain that Italy acquired the F-16 for AMRAAM. So even if the F-16A ADF got AMRAAM and moved up and then the F-16D was added with 12.0 appropriate loadout to replace it, that would work (would also be more friendly on the stock grind for those that already had it unlocked)
IMO Italian F-16A ADF and Hungarian MiG-29A should gets better loadouts because 12.3/12.7 vehicle that has the fighter roll currently is missing in Italian TT.
