Bahrain will receive F-16 simulators produced by Lockheed Martin to train pilots for national defense missions under a new agreement, the US-based defense and aerospace giant said.
Bahrain was the first country in the Gulf region to acquire the F-16 and the first in the world to procure the advanced F-16 Block 70.
The company said in a statement that Bahrain will have a fleet of 16 F-16s, which is the world’s most successful combat-proven multirole fighter.
It builds interoperable capabilities within air forces, enhancing partnerships with allies and supporting national defense and security for nations around the world, the statement said.
“The latest generation Lockheed Martin F-16 training suite allows aviators to train in a holistic, realistic environment, which ensures mission readiness,” said retired US Army Gen. John W. Nicholson, chief executive for Lockheed Martin in the Middle East.
“This comprehensive training solution builds on our proven training systems tailored for the Block 70 fleet of F-16s.”
Since 2001, aviators from 16 allied nations have trained with Lockheed Martin F-16 training systems. To prepare F-16 pilots, the training suites will provide a simulation-based training environment that replicates all systems, sensors and weapons for a total training solution that can be networked together so pilots can train in various scenarios, aligning technologies to deliver advanced training while meeting affordability goals.
To date, more than 4,500 F-16s have been produced, with approximately 3,000 F-16s operating today in 25 countries, including with the U.S. Air Force. Worldwide, the F-16 has flown an estimated 19.5 million flight hours and more than 13 million sorties.