A US Air Force “Thunderbird” pilot ejects from his F-16 moments before a crash at an Idaho air show in September 2003. The US Air Force’s “Next Generation Ejection Seat” (NGES) program intends to upgrade the F-16’s ejection seats, but has been paused pending a review. (US Air Force/Staff Sgt. Bennie J. Davis III)

Sorry, F-16 Pilots: You’re Not Getting New Ejection Seats After All

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The US Air Force had previously contracted RTX subsidiary Collins Aerospace to provide new ejection seats for the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Now it is having second thoughts.

The US Air Force has paused its Next Generation Ejection Seat (NGES) competition for the F-16 Fighting Falcon pending a 90-day review, according to new media reports.

The suspension, which went into effect on June 5 and will last until September 3, will remain in place while the Air Force conducts a comprehensive assessment of operational requirements and acquisition options. The decision could determine not only the F-16’s future........

© The National Interest