A theoretical prediction of zonal neutral winds at the equator at F region heights is presented, using values for the ion velocity calculated with a model also due to the authors. The results, and the dynamic properties of the thermosphere that may be inferred from them, are viewed in light of information obtained from recent measurements performed with the satellite Dynamics Explorer 2. The calculated values of the zonal neutral wind agree in general with the measured values in phase; the predicted amplitude is smaller during the early nighttime, and to a lesser extent during the daytime period. The model predicts practically constant values of the zonal neutral wind with height, and a superrotation less than 5%, in agreement with the experimental findings. ¿ American Geophysical Union 1988