Multirole fighter ·First flight 1974 · In service 1978
The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon — universally called the Viper — pioneered the relaxed-static-stability, fly-by-wire lightweight fighter. Its bubble canopy, side-stick and reclined seat were built for pulling nine g and winning the turning fight.
With more than 4,600 built and flown by 25 nations, the F-16 became the most successful Western fighter of its generation and remains in production and frontline service decades after its debut.
