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Yes
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No
Overview
The F-16E Desert Falcon is a highly advanced variant of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, developed for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of the Block 60 program. It features substantial upgrades including conformal fuel tanks (CFTs), cutting-edge avionics, and one of the most powerful engines installed in an F-16 airframe. Designed to meet the UAE’s demanding operational requirements, it is often described as the most advanced F-16 ever built.
History
In the late 1990s, the United Arab Emirates began seeking a next-generation multirole fighter that would offer significant technological improvements over existing platforms. While several options were considered, including the Eurofighter Typhoon and Dassault Rafale, the UAE ultimately selected a heavily modified version of the American F-16, resulting in the creation of the F-16 Block 60. Unlike previous export variants, the Block 60 was developed specifically to meet the operational needs of the UAE, with Lockheed Martin and General Electric working closely with Emirati defense officials to create what would become the most advanced F-16 ever built.
The new aircraft was designated the F-16E for the single-seat variant and F-16F for the two-seat version. It introduced several cutting-edge features at the time, such as the AN/APG-80 AESA radar, advanced electronic warfare systems, and conformal fuel tanks (CFTs) to increase range without sacrificing agility. It was also the first F-16 to be equipped with the General Electric F110-GE-132 engine, offering over 32,000 lbf of thrust.
Deliveries began in 2004, with a total of 80 aircraft delivered to the UAE. These jets have remained in active service and continue to be a critical part of the UAE Air Force’s airpower, used in both defensive and coalition operations. The F-16E/F has even been cited as a benchmark for future 4.5 generation fighters.
characteristics
F-16E Desert Falcon
General Characteristics
• Crew: 1 (Pilot)
• Length: 15.06 m (49 ft 5 in)
• Height: 5.09 m (16 ft 8 in)
• Span: 9.96 m (32 ft 8 in)
• Wing Area: 27.87 sq m (300 sq ft)
• Powerplant: 1 × General Electric F110-GE-132 afterburning turbofan
→ 144.6 kN (32,500 lbf) thrust with afterburner
→ ~79.4 kN (17,800 lbf) dry thrust
• Internal Fuel: ~3,200 kg (7,000 lb)
• Conformal Fuel: ~1,360 kg (3,000 lb) additional (via CFTs)
• Empty Weight: ~9,200 kg (20,282 lb)
• Max Takeoff Weight: ~21,770 kg (48,000 lb)
• Max Speed: Mach 2.0 (~2,120 km/h at altitude)
• Service Ceiling: 15,240 m (50,000 ft)
• G-Limits: +9 / -3
• Avionics:
Avionics & Systems
• Radar: AN/APG-80 AESA Radar
• Simultaneous air/ground modes
• Improved BVR tracking and resistance to jamming
• Cockpit:
• Wide-angle HUD
• Three color multifunction displays
• Upgraded HOTAS controls
• Fly-by-Wire:
• Digital quadruplex FBW system
• Other Systems:
• Integrated targeting pod capability
• ECM and defensive suite
• Link 16 datalink
• Armament:
→ 1× 20mm M61A1 Vulcan cannon
→ Up to 9 hardpoints for:
—— AIM-9M/X, AIM-120B/C, (optional MICA EM/IR)
—— AGM-65 Maverick, JDAM, Paveway, Mk80 series
—— Targeting Pods: LITENING / SNIPER XR
—— ECM and countermeasure pods
In-Game Implementation
• Nation: USA (or potential future UAE subtree)
• Rank: VII–VIII
• Role: Multirole fighter (A2A and precision strike)
Pros:
• AESA radar provides unmatched situational awareness
• Powerful engine and agility
• Access to modern precision weapons and advanced AAMs
• Advanced cockpit and systems
Cons:
• Heavier due to CFTs
• High BR = costly spawns in RB/SB
Additionally
Optional MICA Integration (Balance-Sensitive)
Though not standard, some defense analysts have speculated that the UAE considered MICA EM/IR integration in future upgrades. Given the UAE’s history of multi-origin procurement and interest in French armament (like the Mirage 2000-9 fleet), MICA integration could be implemented as:
• Event Loadouts / Limited Scenarios
• Custom loadout presets for mixed coalition events
• What-if configurations in the future
Conclusion | Why it should be in the game
The F-16E Desert Falcon is the pinnacle of F-16 development, representing a major leap in capability over earlier variants. With its AESA radar, enhanced range, and multirole capabilities, it would offer War Thunder players a unique, flexible, and powerful fighter for top-tier matches. Whether added to the US tree or introduced via a Middle Eastern subtree, the F-16E would be an exciting and iconic addition.
