Originally Posted by
SkyHawk-N
A large number of those airframes have been earmarked for the QF-16 drone program.
My understanding is those airframes are also basically out of cycles and would require major structural upgrades before they'd be suitable for air combat.
By the time they're done with the needed structural mods and updating to 21st century avionics, it's difficult to see much cost savings vs. buying the rights and building new aircraft under license...