Textron Systems has announced a significant contract to support F-16 combat aircraft training through chase flights as part of the US Air Force’s foreign military sales program. This initiative, led by Textron’s Virginia-based Airborne Tactical Advantage Company (ATAC), carries a financial value of up to $7.82 million and has a potential duration of 27 months.
Chase teams are crucial in aviation training, as they accompany military jets during initial flights to monitor performance, positioning, systems, and overall safety. ATAC will not only handle these chase operations but will also conduct assurance flights from Donaldson Field located in Greenville, South Carolina. The company plans to utilize its own aircraft during the demonstrations while working closely with the Adversary and Specialized Aircraft Program Office (PMA-226) and the Defense Contract Management Agency.
The commencement of work is slated for this month, with expectations to span nearly two years. Scott Stacy, senior vice president at ATAC, emphasized the company’s leadership in chase flight services and adversary air training. He noted that ATAC has been instrumental in establishing industry standards within contracted air services, boasting a fleet of over 100 aircraft, more than 105,000 flight hours, and three decades of operational experience. Stacy expressed confidence that the new aircraft will provide pilots with a significant tactical advantage.
Currently, the US military operates approximately 1,000 F-16s, with around 600 assigned to the US Air Force and 400 to the US Air National Guard. Since 2025, the US has sold approximately 4,600 F-16 aircraft to over 25 countries through the Department of Defense’s foreign military sales program and direct commercial sales, with about 2,200 jets still active among partner nations.
