On-schedule development of the F110-GE-132 power plant for Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcons gives General Electric Aircraft Engines the distinction of having given the widely used fighter its greatest-ever boost.

Rated at 32,500 lbs thrust reheated, the ­132 additionally provides operators with the option of limiting to 29,000 lbs thrust and extending engine life by 50%. Launched in March, this newest variant will be installed first in 80 F-16 Block 60s for the United Arab Emirates.

Qualification testing will be complete in 2002, when retrofits of earlier F-16s will also be possible.

By Paul Jackson