(Globes) Dror Marom - The U.S. Air Force will equip its fighter wing, the world's largest, with Israel Aircraft Industries' conformal fuel tanks. The 450-gallon tanks, built by IAI's Lahav Division, are flown to the plane's manufacturer, Lockheed-Martin, in the U.S. to be fitted onto USAF F-16s. The conformal fuel tanks increase the F-16's fuel carrying capacity by 50%, compared with underwing drop tanks. The USAF says the fuel tanks greatly enhance the plane's operational capability, by allowing the underwing hard points to be used for ordnance. They also provide greater operational range before the need to refuel.
2002-11-29 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive