U.S. Air Force Opens Competition for F-16 Ejection Seat Program

The U.S. Air Force is revising its approach to the Next-Generation Ejection Seat (NGES) program by introducing competition for the F-16 platform and potentially other aircraft in the future.

The move follows an analysis of responses to a Sources Sought notice issued in August 2024. Feedback from industry partners provided insights and technical data, shaping the Air Force's updated acquisition strategy.

In 2020, Collins Aerospace received a sole-source contract to supply NGES for the F-15. However, new market research and changing operational needs have prompted the Air Force to seek competitive bids for the F-16 and F-22 platforms.

Andrew Hunter, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, emphasized the importance of competition: “Reassessing market conditions ensures we meet warfighter needs and timelines while enabling the delivery of the best solutions for current and future requirements.”

A revised request for proposal will allow additional companies to compete for the NGES contract. While initial focus will be on the F-16, the Air Force may extend the competition to platforms like the F-22 and B-1.

Collins Aerospace will continue its work on the F-15 NGES program as part of the Air Force’s current strategy.

Lockheed Martin chose the US18E ejection seat for the F-16 Block 70/72 in November 2020, replacing the legacy seat. Based on the F-35’s US16E with over 1,100 units built, the US18E was qualified in 2023 and offers key improvements.

It supports a broader weight range (103–245 lbs), is gender-neutral, and ensures safe ejection for Helmet Mounted Display users. Its modular design reduces maintenance time, and common parts with the F-35 seat simplify logistics.