First F-16 Block 72 for Morocco completes maiden flight

The first Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 72 intended for the Royal Moroccan Air Force has completed its initial flight, the manufacturer said, clearing the way for a flight-test phase before deliveries begin.

The aircraft flew from Lockheed Martin's Greenville, South Carolina production facility. It is the first Block 72 to fly and is powered by a Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 engine. Earlier Block 70 aircraft use the GE Aerospace F110-GE-129 and have already been handed over to Bahrain, Bulgaria, Slovakia and Taiwan.

Mike Shoemaker, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin's Integrated Fighter Group, described the flight as a significant step in the Moroccan programme and in the country's future air capability. He added that the F-16 remains a central element of air defence, without giving further detail on the delivery schedule.

Morocco holds commitments for 25 F-16C/D Block 72 aircraft, according to the company. Lockheed Martin also said it will support the country's maintenance, repair and overhaul capabilities, which currently cover the C-130 tactical transport and are to be extended to other platforms, including the F-16.

No timeline for the start of deliveries was given.