QF-16 is a manned/unmanned aerial target and threat simulator serving missile/weapons development, testing, validation, and training. QF-16s replaced the QF-4 Full-Scale Aerial Target (FSAT) from 2015 through the type’s final retirement in 2017. QF-16s are capable of manned or “not under live local operator” (NULLO) control operations.
The first of 13 LRIP QF-16s was delivered to Tyndall in early 2015, and Boeing is under contract to deliver converted airframes in six production lots through April 2025. Recent upgrades include EA pod and software modernization to more accurately replicate adversary capabilities and tactics, ground-control modernization, and threat realism/countermeasure improvements.
USAF is seeking a follow-on supersonic Next Generation Aerial Target (NGAT) to better replicate advanced adversary platforms’ performance, radar, IR, and system signatures. Boeing redelivered the 127th and final QF-16 conversion in late 2025, officially transitioning the program to fleet sustainment.
USAF is soliciting industry proposals to extend operations for up to 90 QF-16s through at least 2035 due to lack of a suitable replacement.
QF-16 Full-Scale Aerial Target Technical Data
Contractors: Lockheed Martin; Boeing (drone conversion).
First Flight: May 4, 2012.
Delivered: February 2015-November 2025.
IOC: Sept. 23, 2016.
Production: 127.
Inventory: 11 (QF-16A); 62 (QF-16C) (Current as of FY24).
Operator: ACC.
Aircraft Location: Holloman AFB, N.M.; Tyndall AFB, Fla.
Active Variants: •QF-16A. Converted from retired F-16A Block 15. •QF-16C. Converted from retired F-16C Block 25 and Block 30.
Dimensions: Span 32.8 ft, length 49.3 ft, height 16.7 ft.
Weight: Max T-O 37,500 lb.
Power Plant: Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-200 augmented turbofan, 23,830 lb thrust (Block 15); Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-220 augmented turbofan, 23,830 lb thrust (Block 25); GE Aviation F110-GE-100 augmented turbofan, 29,000 lb thrust (Block 30).
Performance: Speed Mach 2, ferry range 2,000+ miles.
Ceiling: 50,000 ft.
Defensive Systems: Chaff/flares; EA pods: ALQ-188, ALQ-167.
Accommodation: Safety pilot (optional) on ACES II zero/zero ejection seat.