First South Korean F-16s Arrive at BAE Systems for Upgrades | Be Korea-savvy

First South Korean F-16s Arrive at BAE Systems for Upgrades


“Our long-term goal is to offer future customers sophisticated aircraft upgrades with an innovative systems integration approach, providing cost-effective solutions to meet each customer’s unique requirements while reducing their long-term sustainment costs.” (image: BAE Systems)

“Our long-term goal is to offer future customers sophisticated aircraft upgrades with an innovative systems integration approach, providing cost-effective solutions to meet each customer’s unique requirements while reducing their long-term sustainment costs.” (image: BAE Systems)

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FORT WORTH, Texas, June 25, 2014 (Korea Bizwire)–BAE Systems has begun to upgrade 134 South Korean F-16 aircraft in  partnership with the U.S. Air Force. Two of the F-16s recently arrived  at the company’s modification facility at Alliance Airport in Fort  Worth, Texas, where they will be equipped with advanced weapons and  next-generation avionics, including advanced mission computers, new  cockpit displays, and advanced radars and targeting sensors.

The work is part of a Foreign Military Sales program for the Republic of  Korea’s fleet of KF-16C/D Block 52 aircraft over several years. With a  contract now in place, the program marks the first time a non-original  equipment manufacturer is performing a major upgrade for a  4th-generation U.S. fighter jet. The company is also offering similar  capabilities to other countries around the world in need of F-16  upgrades.

“The arrival of the jets is a major milestone for our entire team and a  historic occasion for both our company and the industry,” said John  Bean, vice president and general manager of Global Fighter Programs at  BAE Systems. “Our long-term goal is to offer future customers  sophisticated aircraft upgrades with an innovative systems integration  approach, providing cost-effective solutions to meet each customer’s  unique requirements while reducing their long-term sustainment costs.”

Under terms negotiated by the Republic of Korea Air Force and the U.S.  government, the company is performing Phase One of the KF-16 program,  which also includes associated equipment, parts, training, and  logistical support. Phase Two will begin this year and will fund  completion of the systems integration and flight test activities,  followed by production and installation of the upgrades.

The work to upgrade the KF-16 fleet will be performed primarily at BAE  Systems’ facility in Fort Worth. Other company sites in Florida, New  York, California, and Virginia will also be involved. BAE Systems has a  team of experienced, qualified leaders and experts in place to  effectively manage and support the KF-16 program now, but expects to  hire approximately 150 additional employees over the next few months.  Job opportunities are available in the areas of advanced mission  computers, advanced radar, avionics, and weapons and systems integration  at www.baesystems.com/fighterprograms.

Source: BAE Systems (via BusinessWire)

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One thought on “First South Korean F-16s Arrive at BAE Systems for Upgrades

  1. Pingback: BAE Systems Begins Korean F-16s Avionics Upgrade Program in US – Aviation Today (subscription) | - Suaju Lean Management

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