Morocco’s first F-16 Block 72 takes to the skies

Aircraft is powered by a single F-100-PW-229 engine.
The first Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 72 fighter due for the Royal Moroccan Air Force has conducted its first flight, setting the stage for deliveries.

“This first flight reflects meaningful progress on Morocco’s F‑16 Block 72 program and is a critical step in strengthening Morocco’s future airpower,” says Mike Shoemaker, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin’s Integrated Fighter Group.

“The F‑16 remains a vital component of today’s and future air defence, and we’re proud of the role it will continue to play in supporting Morocco’s sovereignty and contributing to regional stability for decades to come.”

Lockheed indicates that following the first flight – conducted from the company’s Greenville, South Carolina production facility – the aircraft will undergo flight tests pending deliveries.

The flight also marks the first flight of the Block 72, which is powered by the Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 engine. Block 70 aircraft are powered by the GE Aerospace F110-GE-129, and have already been delivered to Bahrain, Bulgaria, Slovakia, and Taiwan.

Lockheed adds that it is committed to supporting Morocco’s MRO capabilities which can already support the C-130 tactical transport, and which will “expand to platforms including the F-16.

Morocco has commitments for 25 F-16C/D Block 72s.

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