Considered by many to be one of the best fighter planes ever designed, the F-16A Fighting Falcon, was the winner of an Air Force competition in 1975 for a lightweight, low-cost fighter aircraft. During preproduction tests, the F-16A exceeded the specifications set forth by the Air Force for speed, climb, maneuverability and reliability. In a "sale of the century" NATO updated its air arm with the F-16A.