Thailand to upgrade 18 F-16s worth $700 million

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress Sept. 29 of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Thailand of a three-phased program to upgrade 18 F-16A/B Block 15 aircraft with the Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU) and associated parts, equipment, and logistical support for a complete package worth approximately $700 million. The Government of Thailand has requested a possible sale of a three-phased program to upgrade 18 F-16A/B Block 15 aircraft with the Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU). Each phase will upgrade six aircraft over a three-year period, with each phase overlapping by one year. The MLU with Modular Mission Computer includes APG-68(V)9 Radar, APX-113 Combined Interrogator and Transponder, ALQ-213 Electronic Warfare Management System, ALE-47 Countermeasures Dispenser System, spare and repair parts, tools and support equipment, publications and technical data, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor engineering and technical support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $700 million. This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a major non-NATO ally. Thailand needs this MLU program in order to upgrade its aging F-16 fleet and to increase air sovereignty fighter aircraft effectiveness and interoperability with U.S. forces. The proposed sale will enhance the Royal Thailand Air Force’s capability to conduct day, night, and adverse weather air defense operations. Thailand, which already has F-16s in its inventory, will have no difficulty absorbing these upgrades into its armed forces. The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. The prime contractor will be Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company in Fort Worth, Texas. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.