They played a key role in developing the Air Force planes brought into action. The center here specializes in developmental test and evaluation, providing an environment in which aerospace experts can test, evaluate and help develop new aircraft, aircraft subsystems and aircraft components. We need to constantly incorporate the latest technological advances to improve reliability, maintainability, survivability and lethality. Testing new developments is critical not only to ensure the new or improved system works as intended, but also to instill confidence in the pilot, who relies on the system to work as advertised, Hancock said. It's also important for the Air Force to get involved early when acquiring cutting-edge technology to ensure deficiencies are fixed and to identify additional requirements.
Early involvement reduces the risks and costs associated with acquiring new technology.
The F-16 Fighting Falcon is a multirole fighter that first took to Edwards' skies 25 years ago. Since then, about 4,000 have been produced and the F-16 CTF has been busy keeping the compact fighter up to date. The test force is currently managing about 54 active test programs to keep the F-16 equipped with the latest technology. The conformal fuel tanks would expand the aircraft's range and enhance its capability to participate in a variety of missions. The F-16's builder, Lockheed Martin, proposed to install the tanks on top of the wings, aerodynamically molded into the wing line.