Turkish F-16 fighter jets are utilizing tablets to operate domestically produced weaponry

Turkey has started incorporating tablet computers into the cockpits of its F-16 fighter jets to facilitate the swift integration of newly developed domestic weapons. This initiative draws interesting comparisons to Ukraine’s use of similar devices, which enable its Soviet-era aircraft to deploy Western air-to-ground munitions—more details on this can be found here.

A recent video showcasing a test launch of the domestically produced SOM-J standoff missile features a tablet positioned in the cockpit of an F-16. This tablet is affixed to the Input Control Panel (ICP), situated on the central console beneath the head-up display. The ICP is responsible for selecting weapons, navigation parameters, and radio communications, among other tasks. Additionally, the pilot utilizes another tablet on their lap, a trend that is becoming increasingly prevalent, enhancing the information accessible through the aircraft’s mission systems and reducing reliance on bulky paper manuals in the cockpit.

In this scenario, the tablet is part of the UBAS, or Aircraft Independent Firing System. Utilizing Turkish-developed software, the UBAS offers a weapons interface for Turkish-manufactured munitions, such as the SOM-J. It is reported that UBAS is installed in Turkey’s upgraded F-16C/D Block 40 aircraft, although it is not compatible with older models. The exact number of aircraft equipped with this technology remains uncertain, and it is likely that it is primarily used for testing purposes before being integrated into Turkish-built aircraft and drones. However, given the availability of this capability, it would be unexpected if it were not more broadly implemented across Turkish F-16s.

The SOM-J missile was developed by Turkey’s Roketsan, building on the design of the Stand-Off Missile (SOM) utilized by the F-4E and F-16 aircraft. It was intended for internal integration with the F-35, although Turkey was removed from the Joint Strike Fighter program, the development of the SOM-J persisted. This missile boasts a range of at least 170 miles and employs a GPS/inertial navigation system (INS) for guidance, complemented by an imaging infrared seeker for its terminal phase. The SOM-J measures approximately 12.8 feet in length and weighs around 1,190 pounds.

There is a growing trend of using tablet-based solutions to adapt new weapons for existing aircraft platforms.

In Ukraine’s situation, which we have previously analyzed, the Soviet-era fighter jets lack the necessary data bus interfaces to ensure smooth compatibility with Western weapons systems.

Last year, U.S. Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, Dr. William LaPlante, stated:

“There’s also a series of … we call it ‘air-to-ground,’ it’s what we call it euphemistically … think about the aircraft that the Ukrainians have, and not even the F-16, but they have a lot of the Russian and Soviet-era aircraft. Working with the Ukrainians, we’ve been able to take many Western weapons and get them to work on their aircraft, where it’s basically controlled by an iPad by the pilot. And they’re flying it in conflict like a week after we get it to him.”

In addition to utilizing tablets in the cockpit, Ukrainian aircraft are equipped with specialized pylons designed to carry Western-made munitions. More information on this topic can be found here.

Conversely, Turkey faces the challenge of integrating new domestically produced weapons onto its older U.S.-made F-16s.

Turkey’s situation regarding upgrades to its F-16 fleet is quite unique, stemming from the occasionally tense relationship between Ankara and Washington.

With the third largest F-16 fleet globally, Turkey’s Vipers have been extensively deployed in combat operations. As a replacement for these aircraft is not imminent, Turkey has initiated several upgrades to its F-16s, including a service-life extension carried out by the domestic company Turkish Aerospace, previously known as Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI).

While Turkey operates Block 30, 40, and 50 variants, it appears that the UBAS system is currently limited to the Block 40/50 jets that underwent modernization through the Common Configuration Implementation Program (CCIP), which was finalized in 2015.

The CCIP upgrade included the mechanically scanned AN/APG-68(V)9 multi-mode radar, a new mission computer, color cockpit displays, an enhanced horizontal situation indicator, the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS), Link 16 datalink capabilities with the Multifunctional Information Distribution System to improve pilot situational awareness and communication, a new air-to-air interrogator, and compatibility with various new targeting systems and munitions, such as the AIM-9X air-to-air missile and the Sniper targeting pod.

Thanks to the UBAS system, these aircraft can now also carry a variety of Turkish-made munitions, which can be integrated without modifying the F-16’s software, which is updated through proprietary ‘tapes.’ Even without access to the software, Turkey can incorporate new weapons onto the jets using UBAS.

The system has demonstrated its capability for deploying the SOM-J, and it is likely compatible with other domestically produced munitions. This may encompass the HGK 500-pound INS/GPS-guided bomb, the KGK glide bombs available in 500-pound and 1,000-pound variants, and the LGK-82, which is Turkey’s own version of the 500-pound GBU-12 laser-guided bomb. Additionally, Turkey is integrating locally manufactured air-to-air missiles onto its F-16s, although these do not seem to utilize the UBAS interface.

For Turkey, the ability to independently integrate such weapons onto the F-16s, without reliance on the original manufacturer or other U.S. companies, holds significant importance.

The relationship between the United States and Turkey has been strained in recent years, which has had a notable impact on the Turkish Armed Forces.

As previously noted, Turkey’s decision to purchase Russian S-400 air defense systems resulted in its removal from the F-35 program and led to sanctions against the Turkish Presidency of Defense Industries.

Furthermore, Turkey’s military intervention in Syria in 2019 sparked demands from influential members of Congress for a comprehensive arms embargo, along with various sanctions against Turkey.

These tensions have raised concerns about the potential disruption of U.S. arms supplies to Turkey, including spare parts and support for its F-16 fleet.

In anticipation of possible U.S. sanctions, Turkey reportedly began accumulating spare parts for its F-16s in 2019.

At that time, Joseph Trevithick of TWZ remarked:

“Having spare parts on hand is particularly vital for the F-16s, which represent the Turkish Air Force’s most numerous and advanced combat aircraft and will remain so for the foreseeable future, especially given the lack of F-35 deliveries. Without these reserves, the Vipers could quickly become inoperable, placing Turkey in a precarious situation.”

Turkey has continued to advance its F-16 refurbishment and enhancement programs, which have gained significance following the loss of the F-35 contract and the aging of the F-4E fleet, with only one squadron still operational in the country.

While there is considerable attention on Turkish Aerospace’s indigenous TF Kaan next-generation fighter, its entry into service is not expected until at least the 2030s. Additionally, there are ongoing concerns regarding its dependence on U.S.-sourced technology, particularly concerning the engines.

Conversely, there have been indications that the strained U.S.-Turkish relationship is improving, even during the previous Biden administration.

In early 2024, then-President Biden expressed his desire for Congress to expedite the approval of F-16 sales to Turkey, potentially paving the way for Ankara’s long-delayed acquisition of additional aircraft. This development followed Turkey’s approval for Sweden to join NATO, a condition that had been seen as essential for the F-16 deal to proceed.

However, as of now, no new F-16 sales have been finalized, making the need to extend the operational life of the existing Vipers increasingly urgent. Given that some of these jets may remain in service until 2050 or later, their capability to utilize new weaponry is highly advantageous. Furthermore, the ability to source munitions from local industry is vital, as it reduces Turkey’s dependence on foreign suppliers who may be less inclined to provide arms based on the prevailing political climate.

In addition to being utilized in the cockpits of Turkish F-16s, the UBAS system has also been integrated into Soviet-era Su-25 Frogfoot attack aircraft operated by Azerbaijan, as part of a Turkish modernization initiative.

The initial phase of this upgrade, referred to as Merhale-1, equips the Su-25 with the UBAS system, enabling it to deploy Turkish-manufactured KGK-82/83 and TEBER-82 precision-guided munitions, along with SOM-B1 standoff missiles.

These armaments can be utilized by the Frogfoot without necessitating additional avionics upgrades. However, it is important to highlight that the second phase of the upgrade, Merhale-2, introduces enhancements such as a new mission computer, advanced radios, communication systems, inertial navigation systems (INS), and more.

The situation in Azerbaijan illustrates Turkey’s distinctive position, bolstered by its rapidly expanding defense aerospace industry, particularly in munitions and drone technology—an area that was not as developed in the past. If UBAS facilitates the integration of various weapons on U.S.-made fighter jets, it would represent a significant advancement on multiple fronts. This could be particularly impactful for exports, providing foreign operators with a swift and efficient means to incorporate Turkish armaments onto their U.S.-manufactured aircraft.

Overall, these advancements in Turkey highlight the increasing importance of tablets as a crucial interface between aircraft and diverse weapon systems. Tablets are also emerging as essential tools for managing Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) drones and other unmanned platforms, at least in their initial stages. Furthermore, they are becoming integral to various training applications.

Consequently, tablets are demonstrating their value in enhancing older platforms with a range of new capabilities in a cost-effective and timely manner.