F-16XL lost to F-15E despite higher payload and hardpoints
By The BriefBrief
General Dynamics developed the F-16XL by enlarging the delta wing area, increasing hardpoints from 9 to 27 and doubling payload, aiming to carry bombs, missiles and fuel across Warsaw Pact airspace. The US Air Force selected the McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle instead, and the F-16XL prototypes were sent to NASA.
WHO:US Air Force
WHAT:Selected the F-15E Strike Eagle over the F-16XL after the F-16XL design increased hardpoints and payload.
WHEN:Reported Sep 7, 2026 at 8:00 PM ET
WHERE:USA
WHY:The US Air Force chose the F-15E Strike Eagle over the F-16XL in the competition.
