L3Harris Technologies has completed its first two-aircraft flight test of the Viper Shield electronic warfare system on F-16 fighter jets. The milestone moves the program closer to full-rate production for eight customer nations.
Testing was conducted at Edwards Air Force Base in California. An F-16C and an F-16D flew together for the first time while equipped with Viper Shield hardware. L3Harris said the trial demonstrated the system’s ability to operate during realistic multi-aircraft missions while detecting, identifying, and countering modern electromagnetic threats.
Engineers also assessed Viper Shield’s interaction with the F-16’s avionics across several mission profiles. The evaluation covered the system’s digital architecture and its ability to provide real-time responses in electronic warfare situations.
Production is now being increased to support 233 Viper Shield systems currently planned. Eight countries have selected the system, and L3Harris is expanding its production line to meet growing international demand.
