Viper shield passes flight tests as F‑16's new defense upgrade
The latest stage of flight tests for the new electronic warfare (EW) system for the F-16 has been successfully completed. The AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield system, developed by L3Harris Technologies, is designed for the latest version of the F-16, the F-16C/D Block 70/72.
AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield is the newest electronic warfare system created by L3Harris in partnership with Lockheed Martin. While the U.S. Air Force also played a role in its development, Viper Shield is ultimately intended to equip aircraft belonging to U.S. allies.
Viper Shield works in tandem with the new AN/APG-83 SABR radar, enabling the detection, identification, and location of electromagnetic emission sources that could threaten the F-16.
In practice, this means countering threats like anti-aircraft systems, hostile aircraft, or anti-aircraft missiles aimed at the F-16 using electronically generated disruptions.
Six countries have already ordered Viper Shield: Bahrain, Bulgaria, Jordan, Morocco, Slovakia, and Taiwan.
The system is available and tested in two configurations: as an integral part of the aircraft, integrated with its avionics, and also as an optional, attachable pod that can be mounted on one of the F-16's pylons if required.
IVEWS and Viper Shield - competing electronic warfare systems
It's worth noting that a competing solution is undergoing testing almost simultaneously with the Viper Shield tests. In September, the U.S. Air Force confirmed testing the IVEWS (Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite) system, developed by Northrop Grumman.
Both systems — IVEWS and Viper Shield — are being considered as components of the MLU modernization package for Polish F-16s.
