F-16 Inflatable Jet

Inflatable Fighter Jet Decoy: F-16 Inflatable Jet

The F-16 Inflatable Jet is an essential asset in modern military operations, strategically designed to outwit adversaries. As a highly convincing inflatable fighter jet, it plays a vital role in military deception tactics.

Description of the F-16 Inflatable Jet Target & Decoy 

• 1:1 Ratio Inflatable Decoy/Target (Base model w/inflatable base)
• Materials: Commercial Spec PVC IR signature created by applying metallic foil underneath exterior vinyl skin
• Thermal capabilities
• Temperature Allowances: -30 to +150 Degrees Fahrenheit (-20 to +60 Degree Celsius)
• Wind Capability: Able to withstand 35mph (57km/h) winds
• Inflation Time: 45-60 minutes on average
• Continuous air flow required (Must use electricity or a Gasoline/diesel generator)
• Storage Area 1.25x2mx2m (inflatable & blowers)
• Gross Weight 550lbs (249kg)
• Inflation Motor Type 100v or 230v blowers
• Dimensions: L: 62’ x W: 44.5' x H: 16.67' (L: 18.80m x W: 13.56m x H: 5.09m) 

Color Reference 

• HL12

• Rigged 

• Falcon Block 

• Sufa Negev Squadron 

Packing List

• Inflatable Decoy: 42"x60"x60"h / 1mx1.50x1.5m (including inflatable & accessories)
• Extension poles to brace wings
• (4) 1.5hp inflation blowers
• (16) 18”x1” steel ground stakes
• (2) Engine thermal blankets around engines
• Deflation tube
• Heavy-duty storage bag
• Deluxe repair kit

Optional Add-Ons

• ODS (Onboard Deployment System)
• Forced-air induction heater with ducting to both engines
• Portable generator (gasoline or diesel)
• Gasoline-powered inflation blowers
• Collapsible crates w/lids
• Stake driver (Honda)
• Camouflage netting
• Water ballast weights

Advantages of the F-16 Jet Inflatable Decoy

• Cost-effectiveness: Inflatable decoys are significantly cheaper than real military assets, allowing for cost-effective deception operations without risking valuable resources.
• Mobility and Flexibility: Inflatable decoys are lightweight and portable, making deployment to various locations easy, while being adaptable to changing tactical requirements.
• Rapid Deployment: Inflatable decoys can be quickly inflated and set up, providing a timely and responsive deception capability in dynamic battlefield situations.
• Camouflage and Concealment: Inflatable decoys can be designed to mimic real military equipment, blending into the surrounding environment, and enhancing deception by diverting attention from actual assets.
• Force Multiplier: By creating the illusion of a larger military presence, inflatable decoys can deceive the enemy into diverting their resources and attention away from the actual objectives or weak spots.
• Risk Reduction: Inflatable decoys can help protect real military assets by drawing enemy fire or diverting attention, reducing the risk to personnel and equipment.
• Psychological Impact: Deception operations using inflatable decoys can induce confusion, uncertainty, and hesitation in the enemy, disrupting their decision-making process and creating opportunities for friendly forces and allies.

Instructions

1. The Inflatable Target/Decoy may weigh over more than 600lbs. (depending on the model), so caution should be exercised when moving/inflating/loading/unloading and handling the equipment. Always use heavy-duty dolly with steel fenders such as Monster Mover to move your Target/Decoy and staff should always wear back support belt.
2. Be sure the area that you will be setting up your Target/Decoy is free of all debris including any rocks or sharp objects. Grass or hard ground is fine for set up if there are no rocks, debris, or sharp objects.
3. You may opt to lay out a ground tarp to protect the Target/Decoy, but not necessary.
4. The inflated Target/Decoy requires clearance from adjacent obstacles is a minimum 5’ (1.5m) around and above the perimeter of the Target/Decoy with an additional 15’ (4.5m) clearance from utility lines.
5. Unroll the Target/Decoy and lay flat in the desired direction/orientation.
6. Tie off any unused blower tubes and be sure that all zippers/flaps are closed.
7. The Target/Decoy is to be anchored by a minimum (12)18" x 1” diameter ground stakes at 90% depth. Anchoring should be applied at a 90 degrees angle (i.e., perpendicular)
8. If anchoring on a hard surface such as asphalt or cement, a minimum of 80lb sand or water bags should be required per anchor location. Aircrafts can be anchored to tie-down rings.
9. Connect inflation blowers to the air tubes using straps attached and close off the additional air tubes by twisting the tube several times and fold it over and secure snugly with attached strap.
10. Now you can install your heat signature radiant blankets (if it wasn’t installed from the factory). Locate the velcro flaps to attach the thermal blanket(s). (Note: Aircraft may have thermal heat blankets around engine(s) or optional forrced air radiant heaters)
11. Plug your inflation blower(s) into the closest properly grounded (GFCI) 110v or 220v (depending on your power source/Country) outlet or gasoline/diesel generator.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to inflate the decoy?

A: It typically takes approx. 45-60 minutes to inflate the decoy if it has an inflated base and poles to brace wings. Add approx. 30 minutes to fully set-up decoy along with ODS. 

Q: Does the inflatable decoy require a power source?

A: Yes, the inflatable decoy must be inflated with 110v or 230v inflation blowers.

Q: Does the inflatable decoy require a constant power source?

A: It depends - i2k has two versions. The most popular is the "constant-air" inflatable decoy that must stay inflated by 110v or 230v inflation blowers at all times. The other version is the "sealed-air" model which must be inflated with electricity or a generator and after fully inflated, constant electricity is not required. 

Q: How long does it stay inflated? 

A: The decoy can stay inflated for several days, weeks or even months depending on weather conditions and usage. Sealed-air version will/may require a top-off of air every week or so to stay fully inflated.

Q: What is the ODS? 

A: The ODS (Onboard Deployment System) is an optional self-contained deployment system that allows an easy use and transportation of the inflatable aircraft decoy. The steel/aluminum landing gear/payload dolly will cradle the inflatable fuselage and support the wings of the aircraft making it look realistic from the horizon while allowing mobilization as opposed to being static on the ground. The ODS contains a storage cavity underneath the aircraft which is able to hold a generator, blowers, Radiant Heater(s), a spare tire and a repair kit. The inflatable aircraft sitting on the ODS can be towed by a lightweight vehicle or even a golf cart. (Note: autonomous options are also available upon request)

Q: What materials are used to make the decoy and how durable is it?

A: The decoy is made of durable, high-tensile strength, lightweight PVC-coated nylon with UV inhibitors, and is designed to withstand rough handling and extreme weather conditions.

Q: Can the decoy be customized to match specific variations?

A: Yes, the decoy can be customized to match specific colors, textures, tail numbers and flags as well as extended fuel tanks and missiles. Camouflage netting is also an option that can be added for customization purposes.

Q: How much does the decoy weigh and how easy is it to transport?

A: The weight of the deflated decoy varies depending on the size and configuration, but it weighs approx. 400lbs-650lbs (181/kg-294/kg) depending on the aircraft model.

Q: Can the decoy be reused or is it a one-time use item?

A: The decoy is designed for long-term use and can be used multiple times for 5+ years depending on the care and maintenance given to the device.

Q: Is the decoy suitable for use in all weather conditions?

A: The decoy is suitable for use in most weather conditions, but extreme weather conditions such as snow may affect its performance.

Q: How do you move or transport the inflatable decoy?

A: A standard decoy is packed in a heavy-duty storage bag that can be unloaded from a standard pick-up truck or small trailer by two crew members. If the decoy is packed in the optional collapsible container, it will require more crew members to be able to offload. If using the optional ODS, a forklift or a lowboy trailer with ramps and 4-6 crew members or a forklift/crane may be required.

Q: Can the decoy be packed up wet?

A: The decoy can be packed wet; however, for long-term storage, it is necessary for the decoy to be completely dry. Inflatable decoys may be prone to mold, mildew, and may rot if not properly kept and protected from moisture.

Q: Can the decoy be used for non-military purposes?

A: While the decoy is primarily designed and used for military use, it can also be used for other purposes such as training exercises or movie productions. (1/2 scale models also available upon request for advertising purposes)

Q: What is the cost of the decoy and where can it be purchased?

A: The cost of the decoy varies depending on the size and configuration and can be purchased directly from i2k or from authorized international traders.

Heroic Actions in the F-16: The Incredible Story of Capt. Bill 'Taco' Taylor's Survival in Operation Desert Storm

The F-16 jet has a long and storied history, but one extraordinary tale stands out. In 1991, during Operation Desert Storm, an F-16 pilot named Capt. Bill "Taco" Taylor was flying a mission over Iraq when his aircraft was hit by a surface-to-air missile. Despite the damage to his plane, Taylor was able to keep it airborne and return safely to base. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the missile had hit the F-16's fuel tank, causing a massive fire. But thanks to Taylor's quick thinking and skillful flying, he was able to use the jet's built-in fire suppression system to extinguish the flames and prevent an explosion. Taylor's heroic actions not only saved his own life but also prevented a potential disaster on the ground.

Advantages of the F-16 Jet 

• Air Superiority: The F-16 Jet is primarily designed for air superiority missions, and it excels in engaging and defeating enemy aircrafts in aerial combat.
• High Speed and Maneuverability: The F-16 is known for its impressive speed and maneuverability, allowing it to outmaneuver adversaries and perform complex aerial maneuvers.
• Long Range: The F-16 has a considerable operational range, enabling it to conduct missions far from its base without the need for mid-air refueling.
• Advanced Avionics: The aircraft is equipped with sophisticated avionics and radar systems, providing superior situational awareness and targeting capabilities.