F-16 History

The F-16 Fighting Falcon, a name synonymous with aerial power and precision, ascended into the skies for the first time in August 1978. It was a product of intense competition between the prototypes YF-16 made by General Dynamics and the YF-17 developed by Northrop. The US Air Force got the F-16 Fighting Falcon, and the YF-17 Cobra would eventually metamorphose into the formidable McDonnell Douglas F-18 Hornet and join the US Navy's arsenal.

Image Source: US National Archives

The F-16's versatility was proven in the diverse theatres of conflict it flew in by many air forces throughout the Globe. Whether it was the tense airspace over the Balkans, the daunting desert landscapes during the Gulf War, or the rugged mountainous terrain of Afghanistan, the F-16 emerged as a formidable force, delivering both ground support and air superiority. F-16s are also renowned for their use in the US Air Force’s Thunderbirds demonstration team.

In our current year of 2023, the F-16 continues to soar in the skies, contributing significantly to Israel's ongoing operations against Hamas and USAF operations in the Middle East bombing Iranian proxies. Its intimidating presence and agility underline its incredible value as a war machine despite the complexities and unpredictability of modern warfare.

It is confirmed that Ukraine will receive F-16s from Denmark and the Netherlands. Judging from ongoing tensions, Ukrainian pilots may face off against Russian aircraft in the Russia-Ukraine war flying F-16s – marking yet another chapter in the Falcon’s illustrious tenure in active service throughout the globe. 

Highlighting our commitment to history and aerospace heritage, we are upcycling two sets of F-16A wings for TransportTags. Serial Number 79-0376 served in active duty with the US Air Force from 1981 to 1994 and was part of the 429th, 428th, 465th, and 184th fighter squadrons. In tandem, Serial Number 79-0310 served from 1980 to 1994 within the ranks of the 421st, 310th, and 465th fighter squadrons. We acquired the wings of both F-16s shortly after they went in storage at AMARC from a DRMO auction in the mid 1990s. In 2014, the fuselages of both aircraft were scrapped at AMARC, demonstrating our passion to preserve valuable keepsakes from these famed fighters, allowing them to live a 2nd life for the enjoyment of aviation enthusiasts around the world.

USAF Photo of SN 79-0310

In an exciting development, we are immortalizing the legacy of these two F-16As by transforming them into TransportTags. Taking physical elements from these historical aircraft, we are creating tangible reminders of their storied past and significance. More than just souvenirs, these TransportTags offer a hands-on touchpoint to history, allowing you to own a memento of aviation heritage and the unyielding spirit of the F-16A Fighting Falcon.

Join us in celebrating this extraordinary journey from the heat of competition to the heart of combat zones; from the victories of yesterday to the mementos of today. Come, be a part of this thrilling saga of the F-16 with your own piece of airborne history – our exclusive TransportTags.