The Polish government has made a significant decision regarding its F-16 Viper upgrade program by selecting L3Harris Technologies’ AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield electronic warfare suite. This choice comes as part of an ambitious plan to enhance the capabilities of Poland’s 48 F-16 Block 52 aircraft, bringing them up to the advanced Block 70 configuration.
Northrop Grumman had also submitted a proposal for its AN/ALQ-257 Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite (IVEWS) for consideration. In light of this decision, Ed Zoiss, President of L3Harris’ Space and Airborne Systems, expressed gratitude for the confidence shown by the Polish government. He emphasized that the Viper Shield is currently in production and designed to equip pilots with the tools necessary to identify, locate, and effectively counter rapidly evolving threats, thereby increasing mission success rates.
The Viper Shield is designed as an electronic warfare suite compatible with the Block 70/72 configuration, which has already seen orders from seven different countries. It can also be retrofitted on earlier F-16 models. The technology creates a virtual electronic shield around the aircraft, significantly enhancing the safety and survivability of pilots as they undertake complex missions within contested environments.
The system integrates a digital radar warning receiver with an advanced, digital radio frequency memory-based jamming system, which is mounted internally. This integration allows for seamless functionality with the F-16’s APG-83 active electronically scanned array radar, thereby amplifying situational awareness and response capabilities to threats.
In addition to its core features, the Viper Shield includes a new pilot-vehicle interface that enhances situational awareness and fosters more intuitive interaction with the electronic warfare capabilities. The system’s modular design facilitates the future integration of additional electronic warfare applications, ensuring that pilots are equipped to handle both current and emerging threats.
The Viper Shield can be configured in two ways: either fully integrated within the aircraft or as an external pod, providing flexibility in deployment as per mission requirements. This strategic enhancement marks a notable advancement in Poland’s defense capabilities, ensuring that its air force is prepared for various operational challenges on the horizon.
