Difference between revisions of "F-16AJ"

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{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=f_16aj
 
|code=f_16aj
−
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
+
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]].
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' represents the proposed introduction of a Japanese F-16A closely resembling a YF-16 into JASDF service, as proposed by General Dynamics in their corporation brochure and advertisement during exhibition in Japan by the 1980s. The JASDF had plans to select a winner from 13 candidates proposed by different aircraft companies as part of a program to replace its ageing fleet of F-104Js and to serve alongside their F-4EJ aircraft. Ultimately, the program came down to a choice between the F-14, F-15, and F-16 where the F-15 emerged as the victor, becoming the [[F-15J]]; while the concept of Japanese "F-16" eventually evolved into the Mitsubishi F-2 which became the first jet to be equipped with AESA radar by 2000.
 +
 
 +
Introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]], the F-16AJ is currently one of only two truly multirole F-16As in the game, alongside the ROCAF's [[F-16A MLU (China)|F-16A MLU]]. The F-16AJ also marks the introduction of the AGM-65 series into JASDF service, providing much-anticipated precision air-to-ground weaponry for Japanese pilots. With one of the latest airborne radars in the game and weapon systems mostly identical to other F-16 variants, the F-16AJ now presents a good option for players who require both air interception and ground attack capabilities. Its available payloads will not disappoint players.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
−
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, maneuverability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
 
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
|-
 
|-
−
| _ || _ || _ || _ || _ || _     <!-- ✓ -->
+
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X     <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 1597{{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || ___ || ___ || ___ || ~__ || ~__
+
| 1,555 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || - || 470 || 463 || ~__ || ~__
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
 
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
−
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
+
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full internal fuel)
 
|-
 
|-
 
| colspan="2" | Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220 || 1
 
| colspan="2" | Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220 || 1
−
| colspan="2" | _,___ kg || colspan="2" | ___ kg/m<sup>2</sup>
+
| colspan="2" | 7,690 kg || colspan="2" | 392 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
 
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
−
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross<br>Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
+
! colspan="3" | Mass with internal fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross<br>Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
−
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel
+
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 29m fuel
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 1,470 kg || colspan="2" | ___
+
| 1,470 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning low-bypass turbofan
−
| _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg
+
| 8,662 kg || 9,913 kg || 10,930 kg || 16,848 kg
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
 
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
−
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (___%/WEP)
+
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Condition || 100% || ___%/WEP
+
! Condition || 100% || WEP
−
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel || MGW
+
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 29m fuel || MGW
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''Stationary'' || ___ kgf || ___ kgf
+
| ''Stationary'' || 6,490 kgf || 8,985 kgf
−
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
+
| 1.04 || 0.90 || 0.82 || 0.53
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''Optimal'' || ___ kgf<br>(_ km/h) || ___ kgf<br>(_ km/h)
+
| ''Optimal'' || 7,434 kgf<br>(1,555 km/h) || 15,225 kgf<br>(1,400 km/h)
−
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
+
| 1.76 || 1.53 || 1.39 || 0.90
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
=== Survivability and armor ===
+
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
−
''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armored, etc. Describe the armor, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
+
As a result of its role as a light fighter aircraft, the F-16AJ lacks any armour protection at all. In addition to this, a significant portion of the F-16AJ's internal volume is occupied by self-sealing fuel tanks, making the aircraft prone to being set on fire when hit. Generally, the F-16AJ will suffer a significant hit to its performance when critically damaged to the point where the aircraft can irrecoverably spin out of control if turning too hard with asymmetrical damage. Finally, the F-16AJ only has one engine, meaning that engine damage is critical. The F-16AJ's smaller overall size and superb mid speed manoeuvrability lends well to it being able to get out of the way of enemy gunfire in close range dogfights.
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
+
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
 
|-
 
|-
−
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
+
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
+
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
−
* A choice between two presets:
+
* 1 x 20 mm JM61A1 cannon, port wing root-mounted (512 rpg)
−
** 1 x 20 mm JM61A1 cannon, wing root-mounted (512 rpg)
+
* 60 x countermeasures
−
** 1 x 20 mm JM61A1 cannon + 60 x countermeasures
 
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|FFAR Mighty Mouse}}
 
−
{{main|AGM-65B|AIM-7F Sparrow|AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9P Sidewinder}}
 
  
−
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance presets:
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
−
* 1 x 300 gal drop tank
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
 
−
* 6 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
 
−
* 6 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
 
−
* 2 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
 
−
* 19 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,500 lb total)
 
−
* 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (8,000 lb total)
 
−
* 114 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
−
* 6 x AGM-65B missiles
 
−
 
−
==== Custom loadout options ====
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! !! width="5%" | 1 !! width="5%" | 2 !! width="5%" | 3 !! width="5%" | 4 !! width="5%" | 5 !! width="5%" | 6 !! width="5%" | 7 !! width="5%" | 8 !! width="5%" | 9
 
! !! width="5%" | 1 !! width="5%" | 2 !! width="5%" | 3 !! width="5%" | 4 !! width="5%" | 5 !! width="5%" | 6 !! width="5%" | 7 !! width="5%" | 8 !! width="5%" | 9
−
| rowspan="10" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-16A.png]]</div>
+
| rowspan="11" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-16A.png]]</div>
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
 +
| || || 3 || 3, 6 || 1 || 3, 6 || 3 || ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs
+
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
 
| || || 3 || 3, 6 || 1 || 3, 6 || 3 || ||
 
| || || 3 || 3, 6 || 1 || 3, 6 || 3 || ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs
+
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
 
| || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || ||
 
| || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
! FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
+
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
 
| || || 57 || || || || 57 || ||
 
| || || 57 || || || || 57 || ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AGM-65B missiles
+
! [[AGM-65B]] missiles
 
| || || 1, 3 || || || || 1, 3 || ||
 
| || || 1, 3 || || || || 1, 3 || ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
+
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
 
| || || 1 || || || || 1 || ||
 
| || || 1 || || || || 1 || ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
+
! [[AIM-9L Sidewinder]] missiles
 
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || 1 || 1 || 1
 
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || 1 || 1 || 1
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
+
! [[AIM-9P Sidewinder]] missiles
 
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || 1 || 1 || 1
 
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || 1 || 1 || 1
 
|-
 
|-
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| || || || || 1 || || || ||
 
| || || || || 1 || || || ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="10" | Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 2,000 kg
+
! 370 gal drop tanks
 +
| || || || 1 || || 1 || || ||
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
 +
* 2 x 370 gal drop tanks + 1 x 300 gal drop tank
 +
* 2 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles + 2 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
 +
* 6 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
 +
* 6 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
 +
* 2 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
 +
* 19 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,500 lb total)
 +
* 19 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,500 lb total)
 +
* 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (8,000 lb total)
 +
* 114 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 +
* 6 x AGM-65B missiles
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
+
The F-16AJ is one hell of a fighter. It is not as good as the [[F-16C]] but is still a Block 10 variant, which is very light, making it exceptional at dogfighting. It can be called the best dogfighter along with the [[Netz]] and [[F-16A]] due to their very low weight and excessive power.
 +
 
 +
In Air Realistic Battles, it can be used in multiple ways, making it a versatile fighter which you can't get bored of easily.
 +
 
 +
* Air Superiority - The F-16AJ can be used in a pure dogfighting role. You should take 2x AIM-7F and 4x AIM-9L in order to be able to engage targets at multiple distances and in multiple circumstances reliably. For this playstyle or role, you should take 30 min internal fuel. The addition of the 10 min drop tank is a good idea if you want to be the first in the battle area. However this might not be the best of choices. Either way, it is always better to have 30+10 minutes rather than taking the 41 minutes of fuel it can hold internally. You can always drop the drop tank, making you lighter whenever you need.  Using the powerful radar, you can search for enemies and lock them reliably for your AIM-7F missiles. they are best used for enemies coming straight at you, and it is best to fire them between 11 km and 3.5 km. However you are almost guaranteed to kill the enemy if you fire between 8 km and 4.5 km. The AIM-9L missiles are very reliable, often ignoring flares at ranges below 1 km. They should only be used on targets that do not know you are looking at them.
 +
* Multirole - This playstyle is a slight variation of the Air Superiority playstyle, which is supposed to give you extra rewards. It consists of taking the following loadout: 2 x AIM-7F, 4x AIM-9L, 12 x 500 lb bombs, the Drop tank along with 41 min of fuel. You are to afterburn all the way to a base, and drop your bombs on it. after that, you should go back to Air Superiority, engaging air targets. It can be a fun way to spice things up or grind.  
 +
 
 +
* In Ground Realistic Battles, the F-16AJ remains the only Japanese plane with guided munitions. This however does not mean it is a good plane for attacking ground targets, since it lacks any sort of targetting pod, making you rely on the AGM-65B's camera to find and lock enemies. Other than that, you can carry 6 x AGM-65Bs on top of 2 x 2,000 lb bombs, making you quite a scary fighter in Ground RB. you should try to find and fire an AGM-65B on enemy SPAA as soon as you spawn in, however if you have failed to identify any SPAA and fire an AGM within less than 10 seconds of spawning, you should immediately turn away, and go low to the ground. This is very important if you are facing Russia, as the Pantsir SPAA can easily outrange you and kill you before you even find it.
 +
 
 +
Overall the F-16AJ remains a very strong fighter, that can fill multiple roles, and be very fun to play, even though it does not get the fanciest features like an HMD, or missiles with IRCCM. It does however remain one if not the best dogfighter in War Thunder, along with the other Block 10 variants.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
−
''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''
 
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
*
+
* Excellent acceleration and climb rate at any speed and highly manoeuvrable at low to medium speeds
 +
* Excellent 20 mm Vulcan cannon, with high precision, fire rate, and damage
 +
* Able to carry a drop tank to increase flight time
 +
* Can carry 6 powerful air-to-air missiles, such as 6 x AIM-9L or 4 x AIM-9L with 2 x AIM-7F
 +
* 360° unobstructed bubble canopy perfect for simulator battles
 +
* Capable of carrying an extremely diverse wide range of bombs, rockets and AGM-65Bs
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
*
+
* Internal M61 cannon has a low ammo pool and trigger time
 +
* No thermal imaging pod for ground attack purposes
 +
* Control surfaces compress above 850 km/h, greatly decreasing the manoeuvrability above this speed
 +
* Very high fuel consumption with afterburner on, and high engine temperature
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
−
''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
+
Historically, the JASDF was not a user of the F-16 series (though USINDOPACOM operates the F-16C in Japanese airbases). In the 1970s, the Japanese government was seeking to replace its outdated fleet of F-104J Starfighters in response to advances in the aircraft technology of neighbouring countries. As such, they launched a program and eventually got 13 proposals from different aircraft companies, including the Grumman F-14, McDonnell Douglas F-15, and General Dynamics F-16. After much consideration and testing, the program was narrowed down to just the F-14, F-15, and F-16. Discussion and flight tests continued and the F-15 prevailed as the winner of the competition, shattering any hopes for the F-16AJ, and ultimately any F-16 to see service with the JASDF.
 +
 
 +
Even though the F-16 proposal failed, a derivative of the F-16 was chosen by Japan in order to serve as a multirole aircraft for the FS-X program. This aircraft ultimately became known as the Mitsubishi F-2, which is still in service with the JASDF today.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f_16aj Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
{{Skin-gallery |market|ugcitem_1001426|F-16AJ Representing the 501st Squadron.jpg|Camo "Representing the 501st Squadron"}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 218: Line 246:
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
  
−
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
+
;Related development
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
 
 +
* [[F-16 (Family)]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==

Latest revision as of 09:57, 31 August 2024

Introducing Wiki 3.0
This page is about the Japanese jet fighter F-16AJ. For other versions, see F-16 (Family).
F-16AJ
f_16aj.png
GarageImage F-16AJ.jpg
ArtImage F-16AJ.png
F-16AJ
Japan flag.png Japan
VIII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
12.7 12.7 13.0
Class:
Research:400 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:1 080 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png

Description

The F-16AJ Fighting Falcon represents the proposed introduction of a Japanese F-16A closely resembling a YF-16 into JASDF service, as proposed by General Dynamics in their corporation brochure and advertisement during exhibition in Japan by the 1980s. The JASDF had plans to select a winner from 13 candidates proposed by different aircraft companies as part of a program to replace its ageing fleet of F-104Js and to serve alongside their F-4EJ aircraft. Ultimately, the program came down to a choice between the F-14, F-15, and F-16 where the F-15 emerged as the victor, becoming the F-15J; while the concept of Japanese "F-16" eventually evolved into the Mitsubishi F-2 which became the first jet to be equipped with AESA radar by 2000.

Introduced in Update "Sky Guardians", the F-16AJ is currently one of only two truly multirole F-16As in the game, alongside the ROCAF's F-16A MLU. The F-16AJ also marks the introduction of the AGM-65 series into JASDF service, providing much-anticipated precision air-to-ground weaponry for Japanese pilots. With one of the latest airborne radars in the game and weapon systems mostly identical to other F-16 variants, the F-16AJ now presents a good option for players who require both air interception and ground attack capabilities. Its available payloads will not disappoint players.

General info

Flight performance

Arrestor gear
Accelerates braking by grabbing the brake cable on the deck of the aircraft carrier
Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Max speed
at 10 973 m2 156 km/h
Turn time19 s
Max altitude15 240 m
EnginePratt & Whitney F100-PW-220
Type
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight14 t
Characteristics Max speed
(km/h at 10,973 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 2,103 2,072 15240 20.0 20.2 262.9 250.8 850
Upgraded 2,209 2,156 19.0 19.5 350.9 305.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
X ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1,555 482 - 470 463 ~__ ~__
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< ___ < ___ < ___ > ___

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full internal fuel)
Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220 1 7,690 kg 392 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with internal fuel (no weapons load) Max Gross
Weight
Weight (each) Type 8m fuel 20m fuel 29m fuel
1,470 kg Afterburning low-bypass turbofan 8,662 kg 9,913 kg 10,930 kg 16,848 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
Condition 100% WEP 8m fuel 20m fuel 29m fuel MGW
Stationary 6,490 kgf 8,985 kgf 1.04 0.90 0.82 0.53
Optimal 7,434 kgf
(1,555 km/h) 		15,225 kgf
(1,400 km/h) 		1.76 1.53 1.39 0.90

Survivability and armour

Flares/Chaff
Aircraft countermeasures to distract IR and radar-guided missiles and also AA radar
Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear482 km/h

As a result of its role as a light fighter aircraft, the F-16AJ lacks any armour protection at all. In addition to this, a significant portion of the F-16AJ's internal volume is occupied by self-sealing fuel tanks, making the aircraft prone to being set on fire when hit. Generally, the F-16AJ will suffer a significant hit to its performance when critically damaged to the point where the aircraft can irrecoverably spin out of control if turning too hard with asymmetrical damage. Finally, the F-16AJ only has one engine, meaning that engine damage is critical. The F-16AJ's smaller overall size and superb mid speed manoeuvrability lends well to it being able to get out of the way of enemy gunfire in close range dogfights.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 148 → 4 388 Sl icon.png
RB9 094 → 12 677 Sl icon.png
SB10 725 → 14 950 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications305 000 Rp icon.png
469 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost3 100 Ge icon.png
Crew training310 000 Sl icon.png
Experts1 080 000 Sl icon.png
Aces3 400 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 280 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
90 / 320 / 490 % Sl icon.png
250 / 250 / 250 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
50 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
77 000 Sl icon.png
1 400 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mods heli false thermal targets.png
Flares/Chaff
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
JM61A1_belt_pack
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods air to air missile.png
AIM-9P
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk82
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon block rocket.png
JLAU-3/A
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods weapon.png
JM61A1_new_gun
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk84
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mods air to air missile.png
AIM-9L
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
40px
AGM-65B
Research:
50 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
77 000 Sl icon.png
1 400 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Ballistic Computer
CCIP (Guns) CCIP (Rockets) CCIP (Bombs) CCRP (Bombs) Lead indicator
Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png

Offensive armament

Main article: JM61A1 (20 mm)

The F-16AJ is armed with:

  • 1 x 20 mm JM61A1 cannon, port wing root-mounted (512 rpg)
  • 60 x countermeasures

Suspended armament

The F-16AJ can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Hardpoints F-16A.png
500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs 3 3, 6 1 3, 6 3
500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs 3 3, 6 1 3, 6 3
2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs 1 1 1 1
FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets 57 57
AGM-65B missiles 1, 3 1, 3
AIM-7F Sparrow missiles 1 1
AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles 1 1 1 1 1 1
AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles 1 1 1 1 1 1
300 gal drop tanks 1
370 gal drop tanks 1 1
Default weapon presets
  • 2 x 370 gal drop tanks + 1 x 300 gal drop tank
  • 2 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles + 2 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
  • 6 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
  • 6 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
  • 2 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
  • 19 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,500 lb total)
  • 19 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,500 lb total)
  • 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (8,000 lb total)
  • 114 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
  • 6 x AGM-65B missiles

Usage in battles

The F-16AJ is one hell of a fighter. It is not as good as the F-16C but is still a Block 10 variant, which is very light, making it exceptional at dogfighting. It can be called the best dogfighter along with the Netz and F-16A due to their very low weight and excessive power.

In Air Realistic Battles, it can be used in multiple ways, making it a versatile fighter which you can't get bored of easily.

  • Air Superiority - The F-16AJ can be used in a pure dogfighting role. You should take 2x AIM-7F and 4x AIM-9L in order to be able to engage targets at multiple distances and in multiple circumstances reliably. For this playstyle or role, you should take 30 min internal fuel. The addition of the 10 min drop tank is a good idea if you want to be the first in the battle area. However this might not be the best of choices. Either way, it is always better to have 30+10 minutes rather than taking the 41 minutes of fuel it can hold internally. You can always drop the drop tank, making you lighter whenever you need. Using the powerful radar, you can search for enemies and lock them reliably for your AIM-7F missiles. they are best used for enemies coming straight at you, and it is best to fire them between 11 km and 3.5 km. However you are almost guaranteed to kill the enemy if you fire between 8 km and 4.5 km. The AIM-9L missiles are very reliable, often ignoring flares at ranges below 1 km. They should only be used on targets that do not know you are looking at them.
  • Multirole - This playstyle is a slight variation of the Air Superiority playstyle, which is supposed to give you extra rewards. It consists of taking the following loadout: 2 x AIM-7F, 4x AIM-9L, 12 x 500 lb bombs, the Drop tank along with 41 min of fuel. You are to afterburn all the way to a base, and drop your bombs on it. after that, you should go back to Air Superiority, engaging air targets. It can be a fun way to spice things up or grind.
  • In Ground Realistic Battles, the F-16AJ remains the only Japanese plane with guided munitions. This however does not mean it is a good plane for attacking ground targets, since it lacks any sort of targetting pod, making you rely on the AGM-65B's camera to find and lock enemies. Other than that, you can carry 6 x AGM-65Bs on top of 2 x 2,000 lb bombs, making you quite a scary fighter in Ground RB. you should try to find and fire an AGM-65B on enemy SPAA as soon as you spawn in, however if you have failed to identify any SPAA and fire an AGM within less than 10 seconds of spawning, you should immediately turn away, and go low to the ground. This is very important if you are facing Russia, as the Pantsir SPAA can easily outrange you and kill you before you even find it.

Overall the F-16AJ remains a very strong fighter, that can fill multiple roles, and be very fun to play, even though it does not get the fanciest features like an HMD, or missiles with IRCCM. It does however remain one if not the best dogfighter in War Thunder, along with the other Block 10 variants.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excellent acceleration and climb rate at any speed and highly manoeuvrable at low to medium speeds
  • Excellent 20 mm Vulcan cannon, with high precision, fire rate, and damage
  • Able to carry a drop tank to increase flight time
  • Can carry 6 powerful air-to-air missiles, such as 6 x AIM-9L or 4 x AIM-9L with 2 x AIM-7F
  • 360° unobstructed bubble canopy perfect for simulator battles
  • Capable of carrying an extremely diverse wide range of bombs, rockets and AGM-65Bs

Cons:

  • Internal M61 cannon has a low ammo pool and trigger time
  • No thermal imaging pod for ground attack purposes
  • Control surfaces compress above 850 km/h, greatly decreasing the manoeuvrability above this speed
  • Very high fuel consumption with afterburner on, and high engine temperature

History

Historically, the JASDF was not a user of the F-16 series (though USINDOPACOM operates the F-16C in Japanese airbases). In the 1970s, the Japanese government was seeking to replace its outdated fleet of F-104J Starfighters in response to advances in the aircraft technology of neighbouring countries. As such, they launched a program and eventually got 13 proposals from different aircraft companies, including the Grumman F-14, McDonnell Douglas F-15, and General Dynamics F-16. After much consideration and testing, the program was narrowed down to just the F-14, F-15, and F-16. Discussion and flight tests continued and the F-15 prevailed as the winner of the competition, shattering any hopes for the F-16AJ, and ultimately any F-16 to see service with the JASDF.

Even though the F-16 proposal failed, a derivative of the F-16 was chosen by Japan in order to serve as a multirole aircraft for the FS-X program. This aircraft ultimately became known as the Mitsubishi F-2, which is still in service with the JASDF today.

Media

Skins
Skin icon market.pngMarket
F-16AJ Representing the 501st Squadron.jpg
Camo "Representing the 501st Squadron"

See also

Related development

External links


General Dynamics Corporation
Jet Fighters  F-16A · F-16A ADF · F-16C
Strike Aircraft  F-111A · F-111F
Export  ▄F-16A ADF · ▄F-16A · ▄F-16AM · ␗F-16A MLU · F-16AJ · Netz · F-16D Barak II · F-16C Barak II
  F-111C
See also  SABCA

Japan jet aircraft
IJNAS 
Experimental  Kikka
Reconnaissance  R2Y2 Kai V1 · R2Y2 Kai V2 · R2Y2 Kai V3
IJAAS 
Fighters  Ki-200
JASDF 
Fighters  F-86F-30 ▅ · F-86F-40 ▅ · F-86F-40 JASDF▅
  F-104J
  F-4EJ Phantom II · F-4EJ ADTW · F-4EJ Kai Phantom II
  F-15J · F-15J(M)
  F-16AJ
  F-1
Trainers  T-2 Early · T-2
Foreign 
Thailand  ▄AV-8S · ▄F-5E FCU

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