As an expert in the field of aviation and military technology, I have a deep understanding of the specifications and capabilities of various aircraft, including fighter jets. The amount of fuel a fighter jet can carry is a critical factor in determining its range, endurance, and operational capabilities. It's important to note that the fuel capacity can vary significantly between different models and configurations of fighter jets.

The F-16 Fighting Falcon, a widely used multirole fighter jet, serves as a good example for this discussion. According to the USAF factsheet, the F-16 has an internal fuel capacity of 7,000 pounds. This figure is a baseline that can be expanded with the use of external fuel tanks. Specifically, the addition of two external fuel tanks can increase the total fuel capacity to 12,000 pounds.

However, when we talk about the fuel capacity in gallons, we must consider the weight-to-volume conversion, as the density of aviation fuel can vary. The Aviation Photo Album provides some specific figures for the F-16 C and D models. The F-16 C is reported to carry 6,972 pounds of fuel, which is approximately equivalent to 1,073 gallons. On the other hand, the F-16 D configuration carries 5,785 pounds of fuel, which translates to about 890 gallons.

It's crucial to understand that these numbers are estimates and can be influenced by several factors, including the type of fuel used, the design of the fuel tanks, and any modifications made to the aircraft. Additionally, the actual fuel consumption during flight will depend on various operational parameters such as speed, altitude, and the intensity of maneuvers.

Moreover, external fuel tanks not only increase the range but also affect the aircraft's aerodynamics and maneuverability. Therefore, the decision to use external tanks is often a strategic choice based on the mission requirements. For instance, a longer range mission might prioritize the use of external tanks, while a mission requiring high maneuverability might opt for the internal fuel capacity only.

In conclusion, the fuel capacity of a fighter jet is a complex subject that involves understanding the aircraft's design, the type of fuel, and the mission-specific requirements. The figures provided offer a glimpse into the fuel capacities of specific models like the F-16, but it's essential to recognize that these numbers can vary and are subject to change based on technological advancements and operational needs.

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The USAF factsheet says that the F-16 has an internal capacity of 7,000 pounds of fuel, with a 12,000 pound capacity with two external fuel tanks, whereas the Aviation Photo Album, the F-16 C carries 6,972 lbs of fuel, about 1,073 gallons and the F-16 D configuration carries 5,785 lbs or 890 gallons.Dec 2, 2008read more >>