Singapore Seeks $325M in F-16 Pilot Training and Support

RSAF F-16D Block 52+(click to view full) Because space is at a premium in Singapore, that country has been training its F-16 pilots for over 17 years at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona. Originally, Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) pilots leased F-16A/B aircraft from the USAF. Now they have F-16C/Ds of their own and they actively participate in US-sponsored exercises and joint training. Singapore’s current arsenal of F-16s number 70 Fighting Falcons, 62 of which are advanced F-16C/D Block 52 aircraft, according to F-16.net. The Singapore government is seeking to continue that training tradition… Singapore is asking the US government to continue its F-16C/D pilot proficiency training program at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona under the Peace Carvin program, as well as purchase munitions, services and support for the F-16C/D aircraft. The estimated cost of the request is $250 million. The Singapore request, which was notified [PDF] to the US Congress by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency on Sept 9/09, includes: 35,000 20mm cartridges, aircraft modification kits, maintenance, participation in joint training exercises, fuel and fueling services, supply support, flight training, spare and repair parts, support equipment, program support, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and […]