New Viper shield EWS passes tests, boosts F‑16 defense
The next stage of flight testing for the new electronic warfare system (EWS) for the F-16 was successfully completed. Developed by L3Harris Technologies, the AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield system is designed for the F-16 in its latest version, the F-16C/D Block 70/72.
AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield is the latest electronic warfare system developed by L3Harris in collaboration with Lockheed Martin. Although the U.S. Air Force also participated in its development, the Viper Shield is ultimately meant to equip aircraft belonging to U.S. allies.
Viper Shield works with the new AN/APG-83 SABR radar, allowing for the detection, identification, and location of electromagnetic emission sources that could threaten the F-16.
In practice, this means combating air defense systems, hostile aircraft, or anti-aircraft missiles launched toward the F-16 using electronically generated interference.
Six countries have already ordered Viper Shield: Bahrain, Bulgaria, Jordan, Morocco, Slovakia, and Taiwan.
The system is offered and tested in two variants: as an integral part of the aircraft, integrated with its avionics, and also as an optional, suspended pod that can be mounted on one of the F-16's suspension points if needed.
IVEWS and Viper Shield - competing electronic warfare systems
It's worth noting that a competing solution is also being tested almost simultaneously with the testing of the Viper Shield system. In September, the U.S. Air Force confirmed testing of the IVEWS (Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite) system developed by Northrop Grumman.
IVEWS and Viper Shield systems are being considered part of the MLU modernization package for Polish F-16s.
