BAE Systems To Upgrade S. Korean F-16 Fleet

BAE Systems has won a contract from the Republic of Korea to perform upgrades and systems integration for more than 130 F-16 aircraft.

The company will now begin the first phase of the work under contract through the U.S. Department of Defense’s Foreign Military Sales program.

“This agreement marks a significant expansion of our F-16 modernization business, and we’re eager to get to work,” said Erin Moseley, president of BAE Systems’ Support Solutions sector. “When we were chosen by the Republic of Korea last year, it showed that we are a viable and experienced provider of fighter jet upgrades and systems integration. As demonstrated by today’s important milestone, we offer cost-effective modernization solutions, customized to meet any country’s requirements.”

Under terms negotiated by the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, BAE Systems will upgrade 130-plus KF-16C/D Block 52 aircraft, to include associated equipment, parts, training, and logistical support.

Phase One of the work will begin immediately and will involve the initial design and development of the upgrade solution.

Phase Two of the work, as proposed, would begin next year and would complete the production and installation of the upgrade kits in all of the aircraft over the next several years.