The F-35 Lightning II and F-16 Fighting Falcon, two of the United States’ most advanced fighter jets, maintain their positions as formidable assets in global air power.

From the F-35’s advanced stealth capabilities to the F-16’s renowned agility, these aircraft continue to define modern aerial combat.

The F-16 Fighting Falcon, affectionately known as the Viper by its crews, has been a ubiquitous presence in the skies, akin to the former Soviet MiG-21 in terms of widespread use.

The United States Air Force (USAF) and Navy boast the largest fleet of F-16s, with the USAF operating 897 of these versatile aircraft and the Navy utilizing 40 for training exercises at the Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada.

Beyond the USA, Turkey proudly operates 243 F-16 jets, making it the only non-U.S. NATO member in the top five operators.

Their aircraft have seen action in various operations, from Bosnia to strikes against Kurdish insurgents.

Israel’s air force, with 218-224 F-16s, has historically been the first to use the F-16 in combat, demonstrating its prowess during the Operation Opera against Iraq’s nuclear reactor.

Egypt, having been the first Arab nation to sign a peace treaty with Israel, is a significant operator with 218 F-16s, a testament to the “peace dividend” from the historic Camp David Accords.

These fighters have engaged in combat operations across Libya, Yemen, and within Egyptian borders.

Finally, the Republic of Korea Air Force, with 167 F-16s, stands ready to confront any aggression from the North, serving as a critical component of the region’s defense strategy.

Meanwhile, the F-35 Lightning II continues to make headlines as the most technologically advanced fighter aircraft today.

It boasts stealth capabilities, enabling operations in anti-access environments, and a comprehensive sensor suite unparalleled in any fighter jet’s history.

The USAF is the largest operator of the F-35A variant with 302 active units, and the US Navy’s F-35C, designed for carrier operations, adds another layer of capability with its unique characteristics tailored for naval aviation.

The US is not alone in its reliance on the F-35’s cutting-edge technology. Allied nations, including Australia, South Korea, Israel, and the United Kingdom, have incorporated the F-35 into their air forces, with the Royal Australian Air Force operating 63 active units.

The UK has reaffirmed its commitment to the F-35 program with plans to acquire 138 units for the RAF and Royal Navy.

Relevant articles:
– These Are The World’s Top 5 Air Forces Equipped With F-16 Fighter Jets, Simple Flying
– Analysis: These Are The World’s Top 5 Air Forces Equipped With F-35 Lightning II Fighter Jets, Simple Flying
– Everything You Need to Know about the F-35C, f35.com
– 5 Top Fighter Aircraft of U.S. Air Force, SSBCrackExams