The Austrian Armed Forces is looking for a successor for its Tranche 1 Eurofighter. According to Militär Aktuell research a total of seven fourth and fifth generation candidates – including the F-16 Block 70, a real surprise candidate.
With over 4,600 produced since 1976, Lockheed Martin’s F-16 Fighting Falcon is the most-built modern fighter aircraft of the past decades (-> 50 years of the F-16 and no end in sight) – a true classic that has reinvented itself time and again. The current Block 70/72 version, as well as the F-16V modernization program for adapting older models, continue to enjoy worldwide demand.
From the manufacturer’s perspective, the program remains relevant and sustainable. Production now takes place at the Greenville plant in South Carolina, and the current order backlog stands at 117 machines. A total of 26 of these had been delivered by the end of 2025.
Although the F-35, as a representative of the 5th generation, has taken the lead in terms of network capability and sensor fusion, the F-16 is still regarded as a cost-effective solution for states that rely on modern combat capabilities without wanting to bear the financial burden of a high-end stealth system. The new Fighting Falcon thus remains an attractive bridge solution – between proven technology and modern operational flexibility.
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The other Eurofighter successor candidates for the Austrian Armed Forces
- The all-rounder: F-35A from Lockheed Martin
- The logical choice: Eurofighter Neo
- The most efficient: Saab Gripen E/F
- The underdog: Rafale F5
- The underdog: TAI Kaan
- The exotic: KAI KF-21
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Technically, the Block 70/72, equipped with a GE F110 or P&W F100 engine depending on customer requirements, offers considerable improvements. The Northrop Grumman APG-83 AESA radar provides significantly increased target detection and situational awareness. In addition, there are updated avionics, new mission computers and a modernized cockpit, which improve operational capability and interoperability – especially in the NATO-framework – are further enhanced. The Block 70 is also designed for a service life of up to 12,000 flight hours.
F-16 Block 70
Manufacturer Lockheed Martin
Engine 1 × F110 or F100
Power 130 kN thrust (with afterburner)
Top speed Mach 2.0+
Armament Air-to-air and air-to-ground armament, 20 to 30 millimeter cannon
Wingspan 9.96 meters
Length 15.05 meters
Today, the F-16 is in service with more than 25 air forces – including the USA, Egypt, Israel, Turkey, Taiwan, Thailand, South Korea, the UAE and – more recently – also operationally tested (including in drone combat) in Ukraine. The most recent production series was delivered to Bahrain in 2023; further deliveries will be made to Bulgaria, Taiwan (F-16V), Greece (Block 72) and Slovakia. Orders have also been received from the Philippines and Turkey.
As far as a possible Austrian procurement is concerned, the F-16 is occasionally seen as a practical option – according to the motto: What is enough for neighbors like Slovakia or Bulgaria should also be enough for Austria.
But “enough” alone might not be enough. For a country that, as a non-NATO member, wants to make its air defense more robust and comprehensive in the future, the F-16 may not point far enough into the future in terms of technology. On the other hand – as is so often the case – the budgetary factor also plays an important role.
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