YF-16 flies in 1974
Employing "fly-by-wire" technology, the prototype General Dynamics YF-16 completed its first flight over Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., Feb. 2, 1974. The aircraft went on to win a fly-off competition against the Northrop YF-17 for an Air Force lightweight multi-role fighter contract. The F-16 Fighting Falcon would also fly for allied nations around the world. (Courtesy photo)