The F-16A is a single-engine, single-seat multi-role tactical fighter with comprehensive air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities.

The F-16B is a two-seat (tandem) variant that serves primarily as a trainer. Its fuselage features include a large bubble canopy, a forward fuselage stringer and engine intakes beneath the fuselage. The wings and tail surfaces are relatively thin and feature a moderate sweep angle.

The wings are equipped with automatic leading-edge flaps, which enhance performance across a wide range of speeds. The aileron-flaps are mounted on the trailing edge of the wings and serve the dual functions of both flaps and ailerons. The horizontal stabilisers feature a slight dihedral angle, and pitch and roll control is achieved through symmetrical/differential deflection.

The vertical stabiliser, supplemented by twin rudders, provides directional stability. All flight control surfaces are driven by two independent hydraulic systems and controlled via an electro-hydraulic control system.

The fire control system comprises a fire control radar with search and tracking capabilities, a radar-optical (REO) display and a head-up display (HUD).

The Suspended Load Management System (SMS) is equipped with a control panel and a visual display for the inventory, control and deployment of all suspended loads.

The standard armament comprises a multi-barrelled 20-millimetre cannon mounted on the fuselage, as well as one air-to-air missile on each wingtip. Various additional external stores can be mounted on the pylons beneath the wings and on the centreline of the fuselage.

The overall layout is as follows: