Author Topic: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter  (Read 14907 times)

Offline M.A.D

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Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« on: August 29, 2015, 01:39:49 PM »
Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter

Disclosure

I’m not the world’s biggest fan of the debacle that is the Lockheed Martin F-35. I envisage the F-35 either continuing to have issues or it becomes proven to not be all that it was made out to be in all its corporate/political spin.

Alternative Story
 
Lockheed Martin in an attempt to capitalise on what is/was good with the F-35 design, attempts to save face and profit prospects by offering a cheaper and simpler 4.5-generation multi-role fighter option for those lucrative customers that would otherwise have purchased and fielded the F-35.
With many of the principle draw-cards of the JSF program supposedly being that of long-rang, supercruise, and dare I say stealth, Lockheed Martin offers a radically re-designed derivative of its F-16XL – known and marketed as the F-16 MRF.
Lockheed Martin modifies the F-16XL (originally to have been designated F-16E single-seat and F-16F two-seat) to incorporate many of the beneficial advanced technologies of what it can save from multi-billion dollar JSF program.
Lockheed chooses to revamp it’s cranked-arrow wing F-16XL design on the grounds of its significant range, weapons lift capability, minimum weapons drag configuration, and it’s its supercruise capability.
Lockheed Martin wastes no time in cleverly capitalising on the fact that in its prototype form, the original F-16XL demonstrated a 25% improvement in maximum lift-to-drag ratio in supersonic flight and 11% in subsonic flight, and a design that handles much more smoothly at high speeds and low altitudes than that of its legacy F-16A/B/C/D/E/F series.
If this wasn’t enough to persuade existing operators to replace their legacy F-16’s – as the F-35 JSF was supposed to have done, the prototype F-16XL, before all its modern improvements offered an increased fuel capacity of 82%. To say nothing of being able to carry twice the ordnance of the legacy F-16A/B/C/D’s, 40% farther.
The enlarged wing of the F-16XL allowed a total of 27 hardpoints – a very flexible arrangement when considering the number of GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bomb II (SDB-II) that the F-16 MRF would be able to carry, as one of its principle weapons in semi-recessed configuration.
Lockheed implicitly knew and appreciated that its F-16 MRF program would have to go and be run as smooth as silk, if it was to debunk its disastrous F-35 program. Adherence to schedules and stated costs would make or break Lockheed Martin Corporation in not just the worlds eyes, but more importantly as a principle participator in the American ‘Military Industrial Complex.’   
Senior/Executive Management of Lockheed Martin knew and fully appreciated the cost and risks of the F-16 MRF could be mitigated due to the fact that the F-16XL’s R&D had already being done and proven in the 1980’s. The Public Relations department countered the concerns of Senior/Executive Management that the original F-16XL time frame of the 1980’s and its failure to win the USAF’s Enhanced Tactical Fighter program was due more to the politics within the USAF to maintain production of the McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle series, when the smaller and cost-effectiveness of the F-16 immediately threatened not just its premier fighter – the F-15 Eagle, it also threatened the USAF’s whole ideology.   
Lockheed Martin engineers elected to incorporate the following changes and modifications into the F-16XL, so as to give it a ‘4.5-Generation’ marketability and performance:

- A Pratt & Whitney F119-PW-100 pitch thrust vectoring turbofan, as used in the Lockheed Martin F-22A Raptor. Lockheed Martin selecting the F119-PW-100 over that of the more powerful Pratt & Whitney F135, on the grounds that the engine itself is lighter, and the F119-PW-100 / pitch thrust vectoring system is already developed and proven on the F-22 Raptor.

-The incorporation of the Pratt & Whitney F119-PW-100 turbofan required modifications to the fuselage and engine bay space.
 
-To improve the F-16 JSF’s stealth characteristics, Lockheed Martin incorporated its Diverterless Supersonic Inlet (DSI) design into the F-16 JFS. This advanced inlet design significantly reduces the F-16 JSF’s frontal radar cross section against the face of the turbofan.

-Northrop Grumman AN/APG-80 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, in an enlarged radome originally configured (as designed and trialled in 1978, for the General Dynamics F-16A (75-0750) equipped with Hughes APG-65 radar).

-Lockheed Martin incorporated the two ventral fin arrangement from its F-16 CCV and AFTI F-16 development aircraft programs, installed under the air intake. These have been incorporated to improve the F-16 JSF’s air-to-air combat manoeuvrability against the latest ‘Flanker’ series.

-With the advent of modern precision and guided weapons, the F-16 JSF is able to carry a significant weapons load in a conformal arrangement. This conformal arrangement does not just contribute to low drag, range and supercruise (when not carrying external drop tanks), it goes a long way to minimising the designs RCS.

-a dorsal fairing running the length of the fuselage aft of the canopy to house avionics, systems and equipment.

-the heavyweight landing gear derived from the Block 40 F-16C/D is fitted due to the F-16 MRF’s weight. This heavyweight gear also permit a higher landing sink rate.

-So as to minimise drag, RCS and occupation of valuable hardpoints, Lockheed Martin incorporated the AN/AAQ-40 Electro-optical Targeting System (EOTS), from its F-35, into the F-16 MRF, to provide the F-16 MRF with precision air-to-air and air-to-surface targeting capability. The AN/AAQ-40 Electro-optical Targeting System (EOTS) is linked to the aircraft's integrated central computer through a MIL-STD-1773 high-speed fibre-optic data bus.

Lockheed Martin was also acutely aware of the mitigation of the two-seat derivative of the original F-35 JSF, in an effort to save development and R&D costs. Because of this and customers concerns about conversion training and 'specialised' variants (EW, SEAD and dedicated strike/interdiction), from the beginning Lockheed Martin developed a single and two-seat variant hand in hand.



So what does everyone think?
Gentleman, I would love to see (and greatly appreciate) if anyone was willing to apply their artistic/PC talent in doing some prolife drawing of this F-16 MRF!

Just as to emphasise the design changes and inclusions of the modernised F-16 MRF, I’ve included some pics of the actual devices, so as to compare and hopefully allow for profile drawings

M.A.D
« Last Edit: August 31, 2015, 08:01:51 PM by M.A.D »

Offline M.A.D

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #1 on: August 29, 2015, 02:37:33 PM »
And some more.....


Offline M.A.D

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #2 on: August 29, 2015, 02:49:14 PM »
And more ...............


Offline Kerick

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #3 on: August 29, 2015, 07:51:09 PM »
That would be a lot of work to build! It would look awesome when finished. I can see why you are asking for a profile first.
Your concept is interesting.

Offline elmayerle

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #4 on: August 30, 2015, 10:06:51 AM »
A very interesting premise, plausible for the most part except that subsequent LM-Aero-Fort Worth studies showed that the extreme version offered the UAE, with essentially F-22 planform for the wings, had better performance all around (this from some folk in their aerodynamics group when I was an engineer with them).  I'd probably also go with integrated internal electro-optics, like the F-16E/F fit rather than podded items like all other versions have to use.  Beyond that, it seems quite a plausible approach.

Offline M.A.D

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #5 on: August 30, 2015, 03:01:23 PM »
Thank you gents!
Ah I knew Id forgotten something elmayerle, thanks for the heads up  ;)

How's this sound elmayerle?:

- So as to minimise drag, RCS and occupation of valuable hardpoints, Lockheed Martin incorporated the AN/AAQ-40 Electro-optical Targeting System (EOTS), from its F-35, into the F-16 MRF, to provide the F-16 MRF with precision air-to-air and air-to-surface targeting capability. The AN/AAQ-40 Electro-optical Targeting System (EOTS) is linked to the aircraft's integrated central computer through a MIL-STD-1773 high-speed fibre-optic data bus.


If this post goes well and I get some profiles done by this forum's talented members, I have a alternative back-story on the go!!  ;D


M.A.D
« Last Edit: August 30, 2015, 03:03:59 PM by M.A.D »

Offline elmayerle

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #6 on: August 31, 2015, 12:01:32 AM »
If you want a vectoring nozzle, a vectoring axisymmetric one was flight tested on an F-16, I believe the program was VAEN (Vectoring Axisymmetric Exhaust Nozzle), and, combined with the results of the LOAN (Low-Observable Axisymmetric Nozzle) would give you everything a F119 nozzle would, and more.  More to the point, LM Aero-Fort Worth was very involved both testbeds and would have that info available to them.  The vectoring axisymmetric nozzle moved in all dimensions and would actually give you more control than would a 2-D nozzle.

Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #7 on: August 31, 2015, 09:27:41 PM »
Not really detailed, but done just to get the feeling ;)




Offline M.A.D

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #8 on: September 01, 2015, 03:23:47 PM »
CiTrus90….that’s outstanding!!!!!!
Mate, you’ve made my day!
In truth I’ve yearned for this for the past six years.
Please forgive me, after all your fantastic effort, but I think elmayerle has merit in what he says about the incorporation of the VAEN (Vectoring Axisymmetric Exhaust Nozzle), combined with the results of the LOAN (Low-Observable Axisymmetric Nozzle)! Im agreeing with his analogy that its employment would give an all dimensions and would actually give you more control than would a 2-D nozzle. I’m also surmising that it would also be somewhat lighter than the earlier F-22-type 2-D nozzle.
Finally, stretching the friendship, but I’m hoping you could be so kind as to add RAAF markings to your work, so that I can use it my ‘alternative backstory’?

Thanks heaps once again CiTrus90

M.A.D

Offline mrvr6

  • Accidentally created a Tejas….
Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #9 on: September 01, 2015, 03:57:05 PM »
how heavy was the xl relative to the vanilla f16?

Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #10 on: September 01, 2015, 05:38:06 PM »
No problem M.A.D., hope you like them :)







I'm looking forward to your backstory!

Offline jschmus

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #11 on: September 01, 2015, 11:08:41 PM »
how heavy was the xl relative to the vanilla f16?

According to Wiki, the current F-16C Block 50 has an empty weight of 18,900 lbs, with a MTOW of 42,300 lbs. The XL was slightly heavier, with an empty weight of 22,000 lbs, but MTOW of 48,000 lbs.
"Life isn’t divided into genres. It’s a horrifying, romantic, tragic, comical, science-fiction cowboy detective novel. You know, with a bit of pornography if you're lucky."-Alan Moore

Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #12 on: September 02, 2015, 12:47:42 AM »
...and an E/A-16 MRF "Howler" too, maybe? ;)







Offline M.A.D

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #13 on: September 04, 2015, 05:48:48 PM »
No problem M.A.D., hope you like them :)







I'm looking forward to your backstory!


She's beautiful CiTrus90!!
Yep she's just as I could ever want  :P

Working on that backstory mate!

M.A.D

Offline M.A.D

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #14 on: September 04, 2015, 08:07:02 PM »
CiTrus90, your E/A-16 MRF "Howler" not just looks great, it has much merit!
Although I’m a little worried by the reduced speed/drag and RCS that the ALQ-99 jamming pods would induce! 

I’m wondering if it would be possible for you to incorporate the contents of the ALQ-99 high and low-band tactical jamming pods into the specially modified/adapted F-16 conformal fuel tanks (CFT), both above and below the wing? The major noticeable give away between the actual CFT and the ‘special mission CFT’ being its ram air turbine, which is located in the immediate front of the ‘special mission CFT’. These ‘special mission CFT’ would also contain additional flare and chaff launchers or towed decoy systems, to assist in defeating enemy SAM’s
By employing these ‘special mission CFT’ will greatly help the E/A-16 MRF ‘Howler’ negate the inherent problem found with the EF-18G Growler's carriage of the legacy ALQ-99 pods – a dramatic reduction in its top speed. The added advantage of the ‘special mission CFT’, is that they would free up wing pylons for weapons to neutralise and supress enemy air defence.
I was also wondering CiTrus90, could you include AN/ALQ-218 wideband receivers pods on your E/A-16 MRF "Howler" wingtips?

Now when I think about it CiTrus90, how about a ‘reconnaissance’ orientated ‘special mission CFT’, which can be fitted to the standard F-16 MRF? Fitted with optical and electronic cameras and sensors, which would negate the need for degrading the F-16 MRF capability or having to sacrifice on-board fuel, sensors or weapons, so as to accommodate dedicated reconnaissance equipment! 

M.A.D   
« Last Edit: September 05, 2015, 08:22:42 AM by M.A.D »

Offline elmayerle

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #15 on: September 04, 2015, 08:38:07 PM »
...and an E/A-16 MRF "Howler" too, maybe? ;)







Beautiful!! Though I wonder if the E/A version might go with wingtip pods like the EA-18 has rather than the ungainly pod at the top of the vertical.

I like the suggestion of re-packaging the ALQ-99 into conformal pods (a somewhat similar re-packaging was done when it was integrated into the EF-111) and, really, you might not even need the RAT for power, modify the AMAD (Airframe mounted accessory drive) gearbox installation to add a second constant-speed alternator and you'd have the power.

Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #16 on: September 05, 2015, 03:32:18 PM »
Quote
I’m wondering if it would be possible for you to incorporate the contents of the ALQ-99 high and low-band tactical jamming pods into the specially modified/adapted F-16 conformal fuel tanks (CFT), both above and below the wing?

M.A.D. there isn't any problem in modeling the jamming pods as CFTs above the wings, but below them i fear they would interfere with the main landing gear. The only other option i can think of, for getting something on the underside, would be modeling something akin to the Goodrich DB-110 recce pod, but, again, this would have an impact on drag and RCS.

The same goes if i were to follow the EF-111 example with a ventral canoe radome: there isn't nearly enough space for that. It's certainly an XL, but it's still an F-16 ;D

Do you have any suggestions about it?

Quote
Beautiful!! Though I wonder if the E/A version might go with wingtip pods like the EA-18 has rather than the ungainly pod at the top of the vertical.

Will certainly add the wingtip pods, but...aww the EF-111 and EA-6B are beautiful with those pods on their tails :P

Regards.

Offline M.A.D

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #17 on: September 06, 2015, 08:45:26 AM »
CiTrus90, regrettably I have as much modeling fenese as an old army boot! That's fortunately why I found this forum site - to admire and wonder at others natural talent! So if anyone wants to have a crack at it - please do  :P

I hear and concur your concerns regarding the underside  'special CFT's'. Modified drop tanks or a slipper-type fuel tank might be the go, as you say!

I fully agree re the Prowler/Ravan fin tip pod! I just not sure the F-16 tailfin cord is enough to support it?

Thanks for your insight and input!!

M.A.D

Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #18 on: September 06, 2015, 03:59:07 PM »
Alright, second version:







Added AN/ALQ-218 on the wingtips, JSF style droptanks, towed radar decoys, EW filled conformal fuel tanks and HARMs.

For anything else, let me know  ;)

Offline M.A.D

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #19 on: September 06, 2015, 04:39:17 PM »
Oh wow CiTrus90, you've out done yourself my friend!!
What a fantastic depiction of what I've imagined  :P
Even down to the towed decoys!!

Thank you, thank you soooooooooooo much!

P.S. been fiendishly working away on my backstory! I only hope it does your work justice  :))

P.P.S. CiTrus90, do you think you could apply your talent to depicting the proposed Northrop 'Big-winged' F-20 Tigershark? 

M.A.D
« Last Edit: September 06, 2015, 05:15:08 PM by M.A.D »

Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #20 on: September 07, 2015, 12:33:29 AM »
Thanks for your kind words ;)

Regarding the Tigershark do you mean like this one?

http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?topic=5284.60



Offline dy031101

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #21 on: September 07, 2015, 09:49:15 AM »
Forget about his bow and arrows- why wait until that sparrow has done his deed when I can just bury him right now 'cause I'm sick and tired of hearing why he wants to have his way with the cock robin!?

Offline taiidantomcat

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #22 on: September 07, 2015, 10:40:02 AM »
Really loving the wimg tip mounted pods! :-* looks legitimate
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Offline GTX_Admin

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #23 on: September 09, 2015, 03:36:43 AM »
I have long planned to do a EA-16G "Gargoyle" based upon the F-16F (Block 60) or F-16D (Block 50/52).  This would include the CFTs and basically transplant the EA-18G Growler wingtip and underwing pods.
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Offline M.A.D

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Re: Lockheed Martin F-16 MRF 4.5-Gen Multi-role Fighter
« Reply #24 on: September 15, 2015, 07:07:32 PM »
Just found this drawing of the McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle FAST pack system and its perceived applications!
Its interesting to note, that in the article I found the drawing The amazing saga of how Israel turned its F-15s into multi-role bombers , the auther is correct in saying "USAF Eagles only took limited advantage of FAST packs."
So from this drawing, I think our notion of utilising CFTs for the housing of our ALQ-99 high and low-band tactical jammers and optical and electronic cameras and sensors for recon, appears to be very feasible!
Well done gents!!

P.S. Backstory still in progress (I have a sick household at the moment!  :( )

M.A.D