The 177th Fighter Wing is located at Atlantic City International Airport, in Egg Harbor Township, NJ. The 177th has been at this location since 1958. Their mission aircraft is the single seat F-16C Fighting Falcon. Since October 1998, the 177th has had an active involvement in Operation’s Noble Eagle, Southern Watch, Northern Watch, Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
About The F-16C
Taking its inaugural flight in 1974, this remarkably versatile multi-role fighter quickly solidified its place in the USAF’s aircraft inventory. Renowned for its high maneuverability, the F-16C has proven its mettle in both air-to-air combat and air-to-surface attack missions.
In designing the F-16, advanced aerospace science and proven reliable systems from other aircraft such as the F-15 and F-111 were selected. These were combined to simplify the airplane and reduce its size, purchase price, maintenance costs and weight. The light weight of the fuselage is achieved without reducing its strength. With a full load of internal fuel, the F-16 can withstand up to nine G’s — nine times the force of gravity — which exceeds the capability of other current fighter aircraft.
General Characteristics
Primary Function: Suppression and/or destruction of enemy air defenses, air and ground interdiction Contractor: Lockheed Martin Corporation Power Plant: One Pratt and Whitney F100-PW-200/220/229 or General Electric F110-GE-100/129 Thrust: 29,000 pounds Wingspan: 32 feet, 8 inches (9.8 meters) Length: 49 feet, 5 inches (14.8 meters) Height: 16 feet (4.8 meters) Weight: 19,700 pounds without fuel (8,936 kilograms) Maximum Takeoff Weight: 39,000 pounds (17,690 kilograms) Speed: 1,500 mph (Mach 2 at altitude) Range: More than 2,002 miles ferry range (1,740 nautical miles) Ceiling: Above 50,000 feet (15 kilometers) Crew: F-16C, one
