*** Posted by Rapier ***
Hi Melvin,

Now I have been doing some more research for you and I think I know what your on about now. The F16's you mentioned are a special version in some ways, they carry the ALQ-119 (there are other versions of this pod) Electronic Jamming Pod for self protection. They basically work by towing them at a desired distance from the rear (they are fitted at the rear) of the aircraft and they send out a radar signal that is similar to a threat aircraft, except it is stronger that the F-16's so if a missle is fired it has more chance of hitting the trailing pod than the Aircraft. It's become something which is a good concept and is sure to be a standard feature of future Aircraft such as the F22. It is mostly used for SEAD missions & I think it has been developed by Raytheon, it works very well.

I hope this helps.

Rapier