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Show Thunderbirds to use latest F-16D models HILL AIR FORCE BASE When the U.S. Air Force Aerial Demonstration Demon-stration Team-known as the Thunderbirds-appears at Hill June 27 for the 1992 air show, they will be flying the latest F-16D Fighting Falcon models. The last B-model F-16 was retired from active service on Feb. 27. The F-16B had been assigned to the Thunderbirds and was returned to Hill to undergo combat conversion, various maintenance inspections and a new paint scheme. After completion, it will be assigned for duty with the Air National Guard. The aircraft, tail number 81-0815, was part of the F-16 fleet assigned to the Thunderbirds in August 1982. The squadron maintained nine A and two B models and has the same configuration with its C and D models. In November 1991, the Thunderbirds changed to the newer D model. It is the ninth different aircraft flown by the Thunderbirds since they began performing in 1953. Past models used by the Thunderbirds include: F-84G, F-84F, F-100C, F-105B, F-100D, FE and T-38A. |