Singapore’s F-16 Fighter Jets to Receive Latest Modernization and Upgrade Package Worth US$8.7 Million

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is set to receive the latest modernization and upgrade package for its fleet of F-16 fighter jets under a contract awarded to Lockheed Martin worth US$8.7 million (RM39 million).

This latest upgrade package brings the total value of the program to US$1.1 billion (RM4.9 billion) and ensures that Singapore’s F-16 fighter jets remain capable of meeting the demands of modern aerial warfare.

The modernization and upgrade work under this new package will be carried out in Fort Worth, Texas, and is expected to be completed by September 31, 2027.

One of the key aspects of this latest modernization program is that, while it is led by U.S.-based companies headed by Lockheed Martin, the upgrade of Singapore’s F-16 fleet also incorporates equipment, weaponry, and avionics of Israeli origin.

This includes the integration of RAFAEL’s Python-5 air-to-air missiles and Elbit Systems’ Display and Sight Helmet (DASH), among other capabilities.

The contract will undoubtedly strengthen the collaboration between Lockheed Martin and Singapore.

Furthermore, this latest modernization package underscores the strategic importance of the upgraded F-16 fleet in maintaining regional security and national defense capabilities.

These enhancements position Singapore to address long-term strategic challenges while ensuring a capable and effective air force for future operations.

It is also worth noting other approvals and procurement packages related to Singapore’s F-16 fleet.

Among these is the recent approval for the potential sale of 54 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles for use on its Fighting Falcon and F-15 Eagle aircraft currently in service.

In June of last year, the RSAF confirmed that it had integrated the Python-5 air-to-air missile as part of its Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU) program for its Lockheed Martin F-16 C/D/D+ fighter jets.

The fifth-generation Python-5 short-range air-to-air missile, developed by Israeli defense firm Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, is regarded as one of the most capable air-to-air missiles in service with the Israeli Air Force.

The missile can reach speeds of up to Mach 4 and has an operational range of 20 km.

The RSAF operates a total of 62 F-16C/D Block 52 fighter jets, with 14 stationed at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, United States, and the remaining 48 based in Singapore.

The aircraft stationed in the U.S. are used for training purposes.

The United States supplied Singapore with the 62 F-16 aircraft between 1998 and 2003.

– DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA