So, I've been reading about the F-16 and its fly-by-wire system. Pretty wild how it all started back in 1974 with General Dynamics (now Lockheed Martin). I guess politics had a big role in pushing for something different than the F-15, and then boom, we got the F-16. What really stands out to me is the fly-by-wire controls. They were originally developed by NASA for space stuff!
The F-16 didn't just become a template for future jets, but it's also the most popular 4th-gen fighter now. I think it's fascinating how one innovation can have such a massive impact on design and tech across the board. It really makes you wonder what kind of tech we'll see in future jets that might seem out of this world right now.
Anyone know how fly-by-wire has been adapted or improved in newer fighters? Also, with so many countries still using the F-16, what do you think keeps it so relevant even today? These jets aren't exactly new, but they're still going strong!
The F-16 didn't just become a template for future jets, but it's also the most popular 4th-gen fighter now. I think it's fascinating how one innovation can have such a massive impact on design and tech across the board. It really makes you wonder what kind of tech we'll see in future jets that might seem out of this world right now.
Anyone know how fly-by-wire has been adapted or improved in newer fighters? Also, with so many countries still using the F-16, what do you think keeps it so relevant even today? These jets aren't exactly new, but they're still going strong!