L3Harris Technologies has received an undefinitized agreement from Lockheed Martin to purchase long-lead material for the Viper Shield electronic warfare system, enabling faster global product delivery. The AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield functions as the baseline EW system for the Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70/72 aircraft and provides enhanced capability against advanced threats through a digital radio frequency memory (DRFM)-based jamming system. The contract, combined with a forthcoming full-rate contract award for Viper Shield ship sets, will allow planned production EW capability deliveries for customers globally.

Ed Zoiss, President of Space and Airborne Systems at L3Harris, said, “Viper Shield protects next-generation F-16 fighters by creating a radio frequency shield, a warning receiver, and a jamming system around the aircraft, safeguarding them against previously unimaginable threats. This contract brings us one step closer to equipping our global customers with the most advanced EW system to safely complete missions in increasingly complex battlespace scenarios.”

In late 2022, Viper Shield successfully passed the critical design review with Lockheed Martin and the US Air Force, and during testing at the Lockheed Martin Systems Integration Lab, Viper Shield demonstrated interoperability with the new APG-83 Active Electronically Scanned Array radar. Viper Shield is on track for installation on next-generation F-16 aircraft for several international air defense forces. Later this year, Viper Shield will return to the Lockheed Martin Systems Integration Lab to test the next planned increment of capabilities with the F-16 Block 70/72 aircraft.

L3Harris has been supplying electronic warfare (EW) systems on F-16s for more than 30 years, with their existing systems protecting fleets in many nations around the world. Due to its operational capability, advanced technology, and affordability, several international air forces have already committed to Viper Shield.

L3Harris Technologies is a Trusted Disruptor in the global aerospace and defense industry, providing end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea, and cyber domains with customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind.