Θέμα: Typical Hellenic F-16 Air 2 Air loadout?

[Hellas Thunder]

Hi all,

What would the typical Air 2 Air loadout be on Hellenic F16 Blk 50, I'm guessing

1/ AIM-120B/C
2/ AIM-9M  (do they carry AIM-9X)
3/ ????
4/ 370 Gal Drop tank
5/ ????
6/ 370 Gal Drop tank
7/ ????
8/ AIM-9M
9/ AIM-120B/C

Any one fill in the blanks or suggest other combinations

Thank you

Scott

[Eagle]

Hi Scott,

Block 50s in  the HAF doctrine carry 2 AIM-120B on the wing tip stations and 2 AIM-9L on stations 2 and 8. No AIM-9M or AIM-9X in HAF service.

However in the near future all jets will undergo a major upgrade program (similar to the USAF CCIP) and will carry the AIM-2000 IRIS-T taking full advantage of its hi-off bore-sight capabilities with the use of the JHMCS. 

[Hellas Thunder]

Thanks Ioannis,

I take it therefore Stations 3 & 7 are left empty or can they be fitted out with AIM-9L as well on the appropriate pylons for a six missile load?

[Eagle]

Yes that is possible. But taken under consideration the modern aerial warfare tactics the extra drag of the two additional AIM-9s does not balance any potential benefits. You simply won't need 4 Sidewinders in any air-air scenario. I would prefer 4 AIM-120s...

[Hellas Thunder]

Yes four even six AIM120's could be carried, but have the Hellenic AF ever flown in a six missile configuration, as I cannot recall ever seeing a picture of it?

1/ AIM120
2/ AIM120
3/ AIM9
4/ Tank
5/ empty
6/ Tank
7/ AIM9
8/ AIM120
9/ AIM120


Edit: Typical I've just find this picture http://greekmilitary.net/Airforce/agean01_lr.jpg