Steve Ferguson (B. 1946) "General Dynamics F16C Fighting Airplane" Signed lower left. Original Mixed Media painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood Commemorative Cover with the U.S. Flag 29c stamp issued January 20, 1992. In 1975 General Dynamics began mass production of a new, light-weight air combat fighter for the U.S. Air Force. Designated the F-16, the "Fighting Falcon" performed superlatively during trials and demonstrated excellent interceptor and bomber capabilities as well. Also ordered by U.S. allies, the aircraft first saw combat in 1981, when eight Israeli F-16s destroyed an Iraqi nuclear installation. But the aircraft truly proved its mettle as a fighter bomber during the 1991 Persian Gulf War. Loaded with both cluster bomb units and Sidewinder missiles, F-16s from units such as the 421st Tactical Fighter Squadron from Hill AFB, Utah, wreaked havoc on entrenched Iraqi troops. With regular updates in avionics and electronics, this invaluable aircraft should serve well into the 21st C. Image Size: 16.5 x 14 in. Overall Size: 20 x 15 in. Unframed. (B13444)