1821 replies to this topic

[M_ZEE32]

Bhai I know that these kits are the add ons to the dumb bombs like Mk-84, What am saying is that the size of the kit for the 2000lb MK-84 and 500lb MK-82 wont be same, or would it be ? the kits for the 500lb Mk-82 are pronounced GBU-12 Paveway II and for the 2000lb MK-84 is GBU-10 Paveway II, both are the same Paveway II series, but minor difference in physical size and softwares to calculate the drag on entirely different weight i.e 2000lb and 500lb,

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/comm.../GBU-12_xxl.jpg

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/comm.../GBU-10_xxl.jpg

The same way the JDAM kits for 2000lbs are GBU-31 abd fr 500lb bomb GBU-38 and for 1000lb GBU-32,

Hope if you could better understand my question,

[safdar]

sorry M-zee is was careless! You’re right, I was wrong MK 84 does not convert to MK82/83. Just that any one of those will be classed as a JDAM once a guidance is applied. Here is something more detailed of what you asked so you will have to work out, not a big fan of JDAM classification myself, maybe you could work out how many types we could have.

WEAPONS FOR PAF F-16s

* 500 AIM-120C5 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM);
* 200 AIM-9M-8/9 Sidewinder Short-Range Air-Air Missiles; the version before the 5th gen AIM-9X;
* 500 Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) Guidance Kits: GBU-31/38 Guided Bomb Unit (GBU) kits;
* 1600 Enhanced-GBU-12/24 GBUs;
* 800 MK-82 500 pound General Purpose (GP) and MK-84 2,000 pound GP bombs;
* 700 BLU-109 2000 pound bunker-buster bombs with the FMU-143 Fuse.

[M_ZEE32]

Well then I guess that the munitions and weapons besides the airplane are also very advance compared to what Pakistan have now ?
They are concentrating on two munition 2000lb and 500lb for different targets, They are themselves producing the MK-82 and MK-82 at AWC. And they are getting kits for these two 500 JDAM kits which are GBU-31/38 mean capability of precision strike with the bombs and bunker buster munition, the GBU-31 is compatible with either MK-84 bombs or the blu-109 warhead, and GBU-38 for 500lb mk-82.

The laser guided weaponry GBU-12 are the paveway II systems for 500lb weapon and the GBU-24 is Paveway III system for 2000lb bomb, now am not sure what they mean by enhanced, it might be the new of the line enhanced DMLGB, (dual mode GPS/Laser guided bombs). Paveway system use the reflected laser energy from the target, Paveway II is an improved series based on the same basic concept but with a simpler (thus cheaper) guidance package and a folding wing group (comprising spring-open extensions to the fixed tail fins for extra maneuverability and additional horizontal range) added at the tail. Paveway III is intended mainly for use in the degraded weather and high-threat scenario and accordingly fitted with high-lift folding wings at the rear, a digital autopilot and an improved scanning seeker. The 'Paveway III' is designed for release at low level and thus fitted with high-lift folding wings, but can also be released at higher altitudes in dives as steep as 60°. The result is a weapon of far greater operational flexibility than its predecessors.

http://www.raytheon.com/capabilities/produ...ms04_018951.pdf

[M_ZEE32]

sorry M-zee is was careless! You’re right, I was wrong MK 84 does not convert to MK82/83.

You know that the ESA rocket Arain 5 was failed first time just because the engineers used the old Arain 4 software and it could not calculate the increased weight and also the increased thust and speed of rocket, confused the main computer and burst it in mid air,

[Saqr]

Well then I guess that the munitions and weapons besides the airplane are also very advance compared to what Pakistan have now ?
They are concentrating on two munition 2000lb and 500lb for different targets, They are themselves producing the MK-82 and MK-82 at AWC. And they are getting kits for these two 500 JDAM kits which are GBU-31/38 mean capability of precision strike with the bombs and bunker buster munition, the GBU-31 is compatible with either MK-84 bombs or the blu-109 warhead, and GBU-38 for 500lb mk-82.

I'm not sure why Pakistan bought Mk-82 and Mk-84 when AWC produces them alongside Mk-81 (250lb) and Mk-83 (1000lb).  It could simply be that the U.S. offered Pakistan a very good deal on the bombs (the entire weapons package for F-16s was valued at $650mn U.S).  Sometimes producing locally isn't as cheap as importing.  Since we're on the topic of JDAM, I wonder if PAF will show interest in the Turkish HGK/HGSS series of JDAM for use on F-16, JF-17 & FC-20 in the future.  Secondly, we don't yet (or officially) have a precision-guided bomb kit for use on the Mk-81 (250lb), but from my understanding, the South African Denel Umbani and Ukrainian Adron BAU-01K can be fitted to Mk-81, Mk-82 & Mk.83 bombs.  Both are probably being viewed by PAF, but the latter was or will be offered explicitly.

The laser guided weaponry GBU-12 are the paveway II systems for 500lb weapon and the GBU-24 is Paveway III system for 2000lb bomb, now am not sure what they mean by enhanced, it might be the new of the line enhanced DMLGB, (dual mode GPS/Laser guided bombs). Paveway system use the reflected laser energy from the target, Paveway II is an improved series based on the same basic concept but with a simpler (thus cheaper) guidance package and a folding wing group (comprising spring-open extensions to the fixed tail fins for extra maneuverability and additional horizontal range) added at the tail. Paveway III is intended mainly for use in the degraded weather and high-threat scenario and accordingly fitted with high-lift folding wings at the rear, a digital autopilot and an improved scanning seeker. The 'Paveway III' is designed for release at low level and thus fitted with high-lift folding wings, but can also be released at higher altitudes in dives as steep as 60°. The result is a weapon of far greater operational flexibility than its predecessors.

Here's a description of the "Enhanced" GBU-12/24:

"The Enhanced Paveway II EGBU-12 is a dual-mode guided bomb designed to effectively operate in all-weather conditions." (link)

"The EGBU-24 Enhanced Paveway III consists of a MK-84 2,000 pound (1,000 kg) bomb with a dual-mode guidance package that has been designed to effectively operate in all-weather conditions" (link)

[aziqbal]

Pakistan should also order or make with China a GBU-28 5000 pounder bunker buster style bomb

if u think 2000lb bomb is loud imagine a 5000lb one!!

[safdar]

Well then I guess that the munitions and weapons besides the airplane are also very advance compared to what Pakistan have now ?
They are concentrating on two munition 2000lb and 500lb for different targets, They are themselves producing the MK-82 and MK-82 at AWC. And they are getting kits for these two 500 JDAM kits which are GBU-31/38 mean capability of precision strike with the bombs and bunker buster munition, the GBU-31 is compatible with either MK-84 bombs or the blu-109 warhead, and GBU-38 for 500lb mk-82.

The laser guided weaponry GBU-12 are the paveway II systems for 500lb weapon and the GBU-24 is Paveway III system for 2000lb bomb, now am not sure what they mean by enhanced, it might be the new of the line enhanced DMLGB, (dual mode GPS/Laser guided bombs). Paveway system use the reflected laser energy from the target, Paveway II is an improved series based on the same basic concept but with a simpler (thus cheaper) guidance package and a folding wing group (comprising spring-open extensions to the fixed tail fins for extra maneuverability and additional horizontal range) added at the tail. Paveway III is intended mainly for use in the degraded weather and high-threat scenario and accordingly fitted with high-lift folding wings at the rear, a digital autopilot and an improved scanning seeker. The 'Paveway III' is designed for release at low level and thus fitted with high-lift folding wings, but can also be released at higher altitudes in dives as steep as 60°. The result is a weapon of far greater operational flexibility than its predecessors.

http://www.raytheon.com/capabilities/produ...ms04_018951.pdf

Well it seems like we have more JDAM kits then the 800 MK-82 and MK-84, or I think we have 800 of each mk82/84.  

Now about the enhanced GBU's From F-16 net :

The Block 50/52 Plus is a version which has special provisions for the adverse weather delivery of the McDonnell Douglas JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition). The update includes an add-on tail unit containing a synthetic aperture radar, providing guidance to 1,000lbs Mk.83, 2,000lbs Mk.84 and the 2,000lbs BLU-109 warhead.

Now I'm assuming that's If the F-16 50/52 have the old APG-68(V5) radar which do not have SAR tech then it would mean that those MK82 and 84 will be converted with the JDAM kits and used in conjunction with the SAR tail unit.

However we have the V(9) version of the AN/APG-68 radar:  with Two-foot resolution in new Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) mode, which allows autonomous delivery of precision, all-weather, standoff weapons.

this could also indicate the enhancement mentioned.  

You know that the ESA rocket Arain 5 was failed first time just because the engineers used the old Arain 4 software and it could not calculate the increased weight and also the increased thust and speed of rocket, confused the main computer and burst it in mid air,

hmm, Iv already blow up my bedroom once. nearly killed the firefighter aswell. we all make mistakes.

[M_ZEE32]

Well it seems like we have more JDAM kits then the 800 MK-82 and MK-84, or I think we have 800 of each mk82/84.

They are not dependent on the 800 mks to use with kits, they can put them on AWC made mks,

[safdar]

I cant access AWC website from here, what is the dimensions and weight of the AWC MK-84 most websites report it 1000 kg and is bigger then the NATO 2000lb MK-84, it is NATO designated thou MK84. if its bigger then wouldn’t that contradict the earlier analysis using wrong weight and software.

[M_ZEE32]

Neither do I but then what would the purchase of 1600 EGBU and 500 JDAM kits against 1500 bombs (800 MK and 700 Blu-109) imply ?

[safdar]

Neither do I but then what would the purchase of 1600 EGBU and 500 JDAM kits against 1500 bombs (800 MK and 700 Blu-109) imply ?

Beats the heck out of me mate!

Now, is there a person (in this forum) who knows the dimensions and weight of the AWC MK-84 in the house?

[ABBASIA]

As per Duniya News, the next batch of 5 F-16 will reach in middle of next month, it was delayed owing to the flood situation that caused trouble at Shehbaz airbase.

[hala]

As per Duniya News, the next batch of 5 F-16 will reach in middle of next month, it was delayed owing to the flood situation that caused trouble at Shehbaz airbase.

http://ejang.jang.com.pk/9-15-2010/images/1037.gif

this is from jang newspaper

[Zola]

Additional 18 should be ordered atleast to counter that endian threat for now. I think , in total we should acquire at the very least 200 f16's, the remaining should be of block 60 specs. We need them now not 10 years down the road.

I know that we are a poor state of nation although nothing shall be compromised when it comes to the security of this country. I hope that our leaders think about this seriously instead of filling their own pockets.

[M_ZEE32]

I dont think that the number would ever increase threshold of 100 !

[Zola]

I dont think that the number would ever increase threshold of 100 !

You may very well be correct about the numbers, although only we would risk our achievements by not acquiring the ''necessary fleet'' to counter the threat we face today. I read that endia would soon deploy another 300 odd, 4th gen+ fighters and obviously those are pointed at us.

I am not implying that we should match their numbers and or their capabilities although a necessary deployment is a MUST to counter any threat we face. NOT having a strong airforce risks the potential to win a war in this day of age, and i am sure that all you members are aware of that more than myself.

When would we ever get a government which would ever get its priorities right ?

[Danish Moazzam]

You may very well be correct about the numbers, although only we would risk our achievements by not acquiring the ''necessary fleet'' to counter the threat we face today. I read that endia would soon deploy another 300 odd, 4th gen+ fighters and obviously those are pointed at us.

I am not implying that we should match their numbers and or their capabilities although a necessary deployment is a MUST to counter any threat we face. NOT having a strong airforce risks the potential to win a war in this day of age, and i am sure that all you members are aware of that more than myself.

When would we ever get a government which would ever get its priorities right ?

Now endia and Soon are themselves in contradiction, then add to the mix Would that is future. You are talking about a decade or so at least before they get their first squardon. Then they have the plan of building it up at HAL and that is the end of all credible delivery dates.

[M_ZEE32]

And Obviously the Generals are done with US equipment and then restrictions and embargoes ! Who know would the provide spares or not after the leave Afghanistan !

[Zola]

And Obviously the Generals are done with US equipment and then restrictions and embargoes ! Who know would the provide spares or not after the leave Afghanistan !

Suppose for a minute or longer, your prediction comes true, (i know its more than a prediction, if one could learn anything from the history) i am sure that their would be alternatives to come over that parts/ maintenance aspect ( would there be a way? )

It would be a disastrous case scenario if that happens.... I hate America along with all its western allies, and yet again i am in a habit of praising their goods, just trying to be truthful.

Rather i think that once we test a HB, along with an ICBM, i am more than sure that the US& the rest of the world would fall on our feet due to the fear. The word FEAR works best on this globe and thus dominates.

[Danish Moazzam]

Suppose for a minute or longer, your prediction comes true, (i know its more than a prediction, if one could learn anything from the history) i am sure that their would be alternatives to come over that parts/ maintenance aspect ( would there be a way? )

It would be a disastrous case scenario if that happens.... I hate America along with all its western allies, and yet again i am in a habit of praising their goods, just trying to be truthful.

Rather i think that once we test a HB, along with an ICBM, i am more than sure that the US& the rest of the world would fall on our feet due to the fear. The word FEAR works best on this globe and thus dominates.

You cannot instill FEAR having a non-existant economy, no governance, so much dispute between federational units and mistrust. Its not about having the bomb its about having the capacity to attack back with both conventional and non conventional weapons. China had H- bomb since long but it only became a threat when it challenged the economic might of USA and EU. China planned and developed, brought in technology.

What do we have to show, Financial aid for PHd. Scholars in HEC scheme gets blocked as govt. does not have money, next day 12Billion bailout package for restoring old employees of PPP is issued. You want me to see light at the end of the Tunnel, there is none, nada. Only light can come if we can dig ourselves out from this  sh!t.

You want to be a Rabid nation like NK then be my guest, but we cant even be like NK, because for all the mess they are in there is no ethnic bull to play in the country. We don't need enemy we are our own best Enemies

[GreenBeret]

I'm not sure why Pakistan bought Mk-82 and Mk-84 when AWC produces them alongside Mk-81 (250lb) and Mk-83 (1000lb).  It could simply be that the U.S. offered Pakistan a very good deal on the bombs (the entire weapons package for F-16s was valued at $650mn U.S).

PAF got US built bombs like Mk-82/84 even when AWC produces them because, PAF has used its old rusting weapon stocks in operations in WOT. These weapons stocks had almost lived their life so new stocks were required in place.

[M_ZEE32]

And why couldnt they issue an order to AWC for these bombs ? Or it something to do with the cost ?

[GreenBeret]

And why couldnt they issue an order to AWC for these bombs ? Or it something to do with the cost ?

Time and stockpiling, not cost.

[Zola]

You cannot instill FEAR having a non-existant economy, no governance, so much dispute between federational units and mistrust. Its not about having the bomb its about having the capacity to attack back with both conventional and non conventional weapons. China had H- bomb since long but it only became a threat when it challenged the economic might of USA and EU. China planned and developed, brought in technology.

What do we have to show, Financial aid for PHd. Scholars in HEC scheme gets blocked as govt. does not have money, next day 12Billion bailout package for restoring old employees of PPP is issued. You want me to see light at the end of the Tunnel, there is none, nada. Only light can come if we can dig ourselves out from this  sh!t.

You want to be a Rabid nation like NK then be my guest, but we cant even be like NK, because for all the mess they are in there is no ethnic bull to play in the country. We don't need enemy we are our own best Enemies

We've 2 choices really;

1) To continue being America's poodle and follow its instructions.

2) Start thinking about our own interests for a start. By doing this , we r not going to please our current Masters. So this would make our Masters hate us further, and the results would be in the forms of SANCTIONS, THREATS, WESTERN TERRORISM (in a similar form of TTP) etc. They would even consider to attack us.

Now if we choose the option no.2, we will have to test the HB along with an ICBM. And if we dont test neither, we would risk everything we've achieved along with our values and independance. Only then we would be able to implement that option no.2.

I strongly believe that the Pakistani people are smart along with never ending strengths. We can only then be able to implement or fix our messed up systems and economy,

I am afraid you cannot compare Pakistan with China neither with N.Korea.

Our social wealth which we've won over the Arab world shall be of a big difference than what N.Korea has gained all along. Just see Irans economy. Regardless of the sanctions its only getting better day by day.

We need a massive change in the form of Inqalab. Then only you and i (if we are alive) would not only see a change, but this Pakistan conquered to the new levels becoming an example for the rest of the world.

[Danish Moazzam]

they will definitely try to intimidate us, i am not agianst test, i am all for it. But to rely that now we have the bomb we can breathe then we are sadly mistaken. It will be plunge into depth of isolation and desperation for a while but we will have to make a gliding platform in free fall and make it work, that is the task a hand if u understand. Testing the bomb wont put them at our feet only it will make them cower away

[Zola]

they will definitely try to intimidate us, i am not agianst test, i am all for it. But to rely that now we have the bomb we can breathe then we are sadly mistaken. It will be plunge into depth of isolation and desperation for a while but we will have to make a gliding platform in free fall and make it work, that is the task a hand if u understand. Testing the bomb wont put them at our feet only it will make them cower away

Agreed to the extend where the drawbacks would start appearing as the world would get an initial SHOCK However i still believe thus back my suggestions, previously made that these actions would NOT be a bigger shock for the world than what actually happened in 1998. If you compare the two, you'll get the answer.

More over Pakistan is recognised as a responsible state worldwide ( other than of those endian propagandas) so i am more than sure that the world incl. the west would only increase its trade with Pakistan so that Pakistan becomes economic consistant to perform smooth operations within its control successfully. If you understand / know what i mean?

[hala]

A good Insight in to BLOCK 52+

Peace Xenia IV
By Eric Hehs Posted 27 June 2010
Five new Fighting Falcons touched down for the first time at Araxos AB in Greece on 28 January 2010. The Block 52+ F-16s, painted in unique light blue and gray camouflage schemes, constitute the last of thirty F-16s the Hellenic Air Force is receiving as part of the Peace Xenia IV program.

This most recent Peace Xenia program, which covers the fourth purchase of F-16s by Greece, began in December 2005 when the Greek government signed an agreement for the delivery of thirty aircraft with an option for ten more. (The option for additional aircraft was not exercised.) The purchase consists of twenty single-seat F-16C models and ten two-seat F-16D models. All are powered by Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 engines.

The new aircraft will populate two squadrons of 116 Combat Wing at Araxos—the 335 Tiger Squadron and a second squadron to be designated either 334 or 342. Both squadrons will be operational in 2010. A third squadron at Araxos, 336 Olympus Squadron, flies A-7E Corsairs. The A-7s are expected to remain in operation for at least two more years. Col. Kostas Vouzios, commander of 116 CW since June 2008, has overseen the transition to the new F-16s. “Araxos was not the high priority for our air force before the F-16s arrived,” he says. “Now it is. My job is to make sure the transition goes smoothly.”

Vouzios brings strong F-16 credentials to the task. Besides having more than 2,000 hours of flying time in the F-16, he was the former commander of 347 Squadron at Nea Anchialos AB, where he oversaw the HAF transition to Block 50 F-16s during the Peace Xenia II program. Vouzios’ experience at Nea Anchialos was further supplemented by his responsibilities in the planning and operations at HAF Tactical Air Force command during the Peace Xenia III program, which involved establishing the first Block 52+ F-16 squadrons for the HAF at Souda Bay AB on Crete.

“Our air force has accumulated a lot of experience through the years with several versions of the F-16,” Vouzios says. “We are using what we have learned to benefit the Peace Xenia IV program here at Araxos.”

Modern Facilities
Araxos is about a thirty-minute drive west along the northern Peloponnese coast from Patra, which is Greece’s third-largest city. Construction of the base began around 1958, and it became operational in 1962. The 336, the first squadron operating out of the base, began with the F-84F and later switched to the F-104G. The 335 was established on the base in 1977, also flying F-104Gs. The F-104s were replaced with A-7Es beginning in 1992. The 335 began receiving Block 52+ F-16s in May 2009.

Araxos was chosen as the newest F-16 base for both strategic and available space reasons. Another factor taken into account was the additional space that will open up when the A-7s retire from the HAF fleet. A sign just inside the front gate offers the first hint that new facilities are accompanying the new aircraft. The sign shows the Lockheed Martin logo.

Aside from producing the aircraft and providing technical assistance, the company functions as a general contractor for many of the infrastructure improvements associated with the F-16 as part of an offset program. The new facilities include two squadron hangars, two squadron operations buildings, and an engine maintenance building. The two squadrons also share a f light simulator building.

“We have the best aircraft facilities in our air force. They are above our expectations,” Vouzios says. “The new hangars are designed to be maintenance friendly, which they are. A new mentality comes with the new facilities.” The new mentality at Araxos can be viewed as a shift into the digital age. “Our most important improvement is a fiber optic network,” Vouzios continues. “We hope to have a paperless operational system fully functioning by the end of 2010. The network will link all activities at the base—logistics, base operations, and maintenance. Even our security and ground-based air defense units will be attached to the network.”

335 Squadron
The 335 Squadron functions as an elemental node on that network. “As of November 2009, we have only two network terminals—one at our operations desk and another in the maintenance squadron—so we use the radio a lot and do a lot on paper,” notes Lt. Col. Evangelos Tzikas, commander of 335 Squadron. “But that situation will change quickly in the coming months as we incorporate more terminals in the squadron.” Half of the thirty F-16s and forty-five or so F-16 pilots at Araxos are assigned to 335 Squadron.

Four pilots in The 335 are pilots who learned to fly F-16s with the Arizona Ai r National Guard in Tucson. Five others are F-16 pilots who went through upgrade training in the United States to become instructor pilots. Most of the remaining pilots are former F-16 pilots who went through training at Souda Bay to transition from other versions of the F-16 to the new Block 52+.

The majority of the maintenance technicians are veterans of 335 Squadron when it was an A-7 squadron. For example, Capt. Eleftherios Karfitsas worked in quality assurance with the A-7 at Araxos before he was selected as chief of maintenance for the 335. He went to the United States to train for eleven months—three months at Sheppard AFB in Texas for a maintenance officer course and then eight months at Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth for F-16 classes. “My training in Fort Worth was very helpful since I had no previous experience on F-16,” Karfitsas says.

While the majority of technicians have A-7 backgrounds, the squadron’s maintenance function began with a core group with solid F-16 experience. “We sent some of the experienced F-16 technicians to the US for training in systems unique to the Block 52+,” Karfitsas continues. “The technicians with no F-16 experience were sent to our Block 50 and Block 52 units at Nea Anchialos and Souda Bay for eighteen months.”

The F-16 is a radical change for maintenance technicians coming from the A-7. “Maintaining the F-16 is way different from the A-7 and the F-4 before that,” explains Karfitsas, who worked on F-4s from 1998 to 2004. “The Phantoms are very difficult for maintainers. The F-4 is difficult to access. Changing the main wheel on an F-4 takes three or four times the effort and time needed to change a wheel on the F-16. The F-16 maintenance system tells us where the problems are located. The data acquisition system in our Block 52 aircraft makes troubleshooting even easier.” The system, unique to the F-16s at Araxos, processes and stores flight data on the F-16 from a variety of sensors.

“The differences between the aircraft are huge, and the work itself is a major change,” adds CMSgt. Spiros Koutelidas, a former A-7 crew chief at Araxos who now works as an inspector on the F-16. “A simple inspection is difficult and dirty on the A-7 because the airplane is so old. We inspect and repair on the A-7. We inspect and fly on the F-16.”

Block 52+ Details
The Block 52+ F-16s flown at Araxos are representative of the most advanced F-16s produced to date. They have additional fuel and payload capacity, new or improved avionics and sensors, color cockpit displays with enhanced pilot/vehicle interfaces, as well as many other improvements.
Conformal fuel tanks, which can be used in lieu of wing tanks, free the inner wing store stations and, if needed, double the primary air-to-ground payload. The tanks have a negligible effect on the F-16’s agility, handling qualities, flight limits, and signature.

The aircraft’s Northrop Grumman APG-68(V)9 multimode radar, one of the most advanced radars flying today, has more than fivefold faster processing speed and tenfold greater memory capacity over the previous radars. A high-resolution synthetic aperture radar mode allows the pilot to locate and recognize tactical ground targets from considerable distances.

The Block 52+ gains an enhanced capability for precision strike from standoff distances with advanced weapons, such as GBU-31 Joint Direct Attack Munition and the AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon. Air-to-air improvements include a thirty percent increase in detection range and functionality and tracking quality improvements in various modes.

The aircraft will employ LANTIRN targeting pods. In conjunction with laser guided bombs, the targeting pod provides day/night precision strikes from high altitudes. Among other uses, the targeting systems can be employed for seeker cueing of a variety of guided weapons and for covert air-to-air operations.
The cockpit features the joint helmet-mounted cueing system, color multifunctional displays, digital recording equipment, and large capacity data transfer cartridges. The aircraft has cockpit lighting and external strip lighting compatible with night vision goggles.

All two-seat models of the Block 52+ have a distinctive dorsal avionics compartment that allows these aircraft to accommodate all of the systems of the single-seat model in addition to more chaff/flare dispensers. The rear cockpit can be configured for either a weapon system operator or an instructor pilot and can be converted with a single switch in the cockpit.

Unique Systems
While the systems above are shared with the Block 52+ aircraft at Souda Bay, the Araxos F-16s have several unique systems. Some of the more significant are a digital video recorder, Link 16 datalink, and a reconnaissance system. The digital video recorder captures relevant flight information for an entire sortie. Pilots don’t have to start and stop a recorder, for example, to capture critical portions of a training f light. The recorder is part of a ground debrief system with impressive features. “We can replay the mission from the perspective of any F-16 involved in that mission,” explains Capt. Demetrios Papageorgiou, a pilot with 335 Squadron.

“The system allows us to focus wherever we want without having to rewind one or more tapes. It records every detail of the flight, every communication. The system is one of the best things that came with these aircraft.”
While pilots have high praise for the new debrief system, all agree Link 16 datalink is the most impressive of the new capabilities. Link 16 provides secure, jam-resistant, high-volume data exchange on a multinode network.
“An air force will have to be part of the network to fly cooperative missions in the future, so Link 16 is a prerequisite for participating in joint operations,” explains Vouzios. “Link 16 provided a huge tactical advantage when we participated in a NATO exercise on Crete in November. For now, we are the only fighter unit in the Hellenic Air Force with Link 16, besides the only unit with airborne early warning asset and ground-based air defense units. But we want to upgrade all of our Block 52 and Block 50 aircraft with the datalink capability as soon as we can.”

The Goodrich DB-110 airborne reconnaissance system allows pilots to capture images day or night using electro-optical sensor technology. Images can be transmitted to analysts on the ground in real time for immediate exploitation and analysis. The DB-110 gives the HAF a long-range, high-resolution, standoff imaging capability to support tactical operations. “While both F-16 squadrons will fly multirole missions with air-to-ground as their primary role, reconnaissance will be a specialized role for the 335,” notes Tzikas. “We will begin working the reconnaissance mission after the squadron is declared operational in 2010.”

“We have to start our operational concept for the reconnaissance mission from scratch,” adds Vouzios. “The manufacturer provides the data on how the system works, but the operational tactics are country-specific. We can’t borrow from other users’ experience, so we have a lot to accomplish with this advanced capability.”
Tzikas sums up the capabilities of his squadron’s new jets: “I can do anything and see everything in this airplane. The situational awareness is excellent. If I miss something during a flight, I have made the mistake. I didn’t miss it because the airplane failed to detect it.”

“From the perspective of a younger pilot, the Block 52+ is a real challenge,” adds Lt. Panagiotopoulos Panagiotis, one of the few lieutenants in the HAF assigned to an advanced F-16 squadron. “The aircraft combines the F-16’s power and agility with a totally new cockpit environment that enhances situational awareness. It is a delight to fly.”

Right People
“Because we are f lying a brand new airplane with the most advanced systems, our air force is focused on us,” says Maj. Stratos Grivas, flight lead with the 335. “We have to perform to a set of expectations that are set very high by the capability of the Block 52+. To meet those expectations, we have to create a coherent team from many people with a variety of backgrounds and experience levels. We are getting there.”

“Apart from performing acceptance inspections and generating flights, we are organizing a new squadron,” adds Karfitsas. “The process is something like forming a new family—an interesting challenge.”

“We have the right people here to do the job,” Tzikas concludes. “I feel very proud of what we have accomplished so far. The aircraft are performing as expected. We have some of the best facilities in the Hellenic Air Force. We have the traditional operational weapons in place, and we are beginning to receive new precision-guided weapons. These new weapons will add even more capability to the aircraft. We are looking forward to the future.”

[Best of the Best]

ONE Simple Question whatever happened to the delivery of the rest of the viper fleet hasn't anybody noticed that other then the 4 that were delivered earlier none have arrived although they were suppose to be inducted by now.

[blackvenom]

ONE Simple Question whatever happened to the delivery of the rest of the viper fleet hasn't anybody noticed that other then the 4 that were delivered earlier none have arrived although they were suppose to be inducted by now.

4 more were supposed to come in at the end of august and another 4 at the end of october.
whats the word on your sources

[Best of the Best]

4 more were supposed to come in at the end of august and another 4 at the end of october.
whats the word on your sources

I have been trying to call some people to get the status of new vipers although i haven't been lucky to get through to them, i do know a PAF media affairs spokes man in Karachi, Squadron leader Naveed, i will try to meet him personally since he is in Karachi. I would certainly like to know what's up since there has been no information on the delivery of the new vipers.

[hala]

http://www.express.com.pk/epaper/PoPupwind...p;Date=20101025

[Best of the Best]

I talked to squadron leader Nadeem he told me , that we will be getting 4 new F-16's in December although the news posted above says we will receive 10 new F-16's in November. Lets see.

He Also told me PAF is looking to buy F-16 airframes currently in the US but PAF is negotiating on prices related to those wonder why we are looking for other F-16 airframes also MLU has started but it might get a bit longer then expected to make all of the PAF F-16 Mlued.

[visioninthedark]

Two more on the way ..... serial numbers 10904 and 10903 - both F-16C's B52+

Both were transiting through Vermont ANG Burlington, on their way to Pakistan - were supposed to take off yesterday for the next leg from Burlington ANG Base.

According to the some of the ground crew - one had possible standby generator failure ..... was fixed by them using parts from one of their F-16's and is on its way now ....

these are the birds:

http://www.f-16.net/modules/Gallery2/galle..._serialNumber=2

http://www.f-16.net/modules/Gallery2/galle..._serialNumber=2

http://www.f-16.net/modules/Gallery2/galle..._serialNumber=2

http://www.f-16.net/modules/Gallery2/galle..._serialNumber=2

All pics courtsey F-16.net and to the Vermont ANG Burlington Vt , base ground crew who took them.

[wcheema]

Geo news repoted that 3 f16 block 52 reached shahbaz air base this afternoon

[Tarbela]

NEWS BREAK

Got it on TV, PAf to get 6 F-16 block 52 fighter aircrafts from USA.
these aircrafts, part of the deal f 18 on order will arrive in Pakistan tomorrow.
the jet are currently in Greece and will reach Jacobabad Airbase tomorrow. the fighter aircraft consignment is being flown to Pakistan from For mill airbase USA by PAF pilots.
Congratulation!

[wcheema]

NEWS BREAK

Got it on TV, PAf has shown interest in norwegian F-16 block fighter aircrafts. this was told by minister of defence to visiting norwegian defence delegates. GEO new report

[aliyusuf]

The final batch of 6 Blk-52+ F-16s have landed at Shahbaz (Jacobabad) Airbase.

So according to my personal estimates following should be what the active inventory of the PAF ought to be looking like ...

Note:
Only those air-crafts which are primary active frontline combat platforms are included in this list. The transport, cargo, ELint, VIP and Dual/Tandem seat trainers, have not been included in the above list e.g. the C-130, Mashshak, T-33, T-37, K-8, FT-5, FT-7, FT-7PG, Mirage-IIID, Mirage-VD etc.

Active Primary Fighter.........QTY
F-16.........Blk-52+.......C......12
F-16.........Blk-52+.......D......06
F-16.........Blk-15 OCU A.......03
F-16.........Blk-15 OCU B.......11
F-16.........Blk-15........A.......21
F-16.........Blk-15........B.......10
JF-17........Blk-I...................20
Mirage.......III-O ROSE-I.......30
Mirage.......III-EL.................08
Mirage.......V-EF ROSE-II......19
Mirage.......V-EF ROSE-III.....14
Mirage.......V-PA3.................10
Mirage.......V-PA2.................15
Mirage.......V-PA...................18
F-7............PG......................45
F-7............P/MP...................97

Would appreciate inputs & corrections.

[Zola]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tE_wGZyElJI...layer_embedded#!

[legend]

[Zola]

45 F-16 fighter jets being upgraded in Turkey: Air Chief

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman has appreciated the role of police in war against terror, Geo News reported on Thursday.

Talking to media after a ceremony in police lines Islamabad, Air Chief said that 45 F-16 fighter gets are being upgraded in Turkey. He added that new squadrons of F-16 and JF-17 thunder planes would be constituted in March.

He informed that PAF have 21 JF-17 thunder jets in final stage while nine are being manufactured.

Earlier, addressing the passing out ceremony as chief guest, Air Chief Marshal stated that sacrifices of police for the country would not go waste, adding that police and armed forces are fighting against the war on terror hand-to-hand.

He was optimistic that terrorism would be eliminated from the country.

http://www.thenews.com.pk/NewsDetail.aspx?ID=10155