Boeing gets US contract to turn retired F-16s into supersonic drones

Boeing has secured a $10.2 million contract bringing the total to $318.7 million to convert retired F-16 fighter jets into QF-16 supersonic drones, enhancing testing realism for the US Air Force. This order adds to a total worth $318.7 million and follows a decades-long practice of using converted fighters as uncrewed targets. The QF-16, nicknamed “Zombie Vipers,” will replace aging aircraft, with plans to integrate 210 drones into the Air Force by December 2026. The "Zombie Vipers" are expected to be in service until 2035 and lend capabilities for supersonic, 9-g maneuvering during air defense tests.

Despite ongoing credibility issues and significant financial losses, the QF-16 program appears to be progressing smoothly. These drones will support advanced testing of air-defense capabilities. Delivering on this contract may help restore Boeing's reputation amid various challenges in their commercial and defense sectors.