The US Air Force’s Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite (IVEWS) has successfully completed its Operational Assessment flight testing, marking a significant milestone in enhancing the capabilities of fourth-generation aircraft. Northrop Grumman, the developer of the IVEWS, confirmed that extensive flight tests were conducted in Florida and Nevada. During these tests, two F-16 Block 50 aircraft outfitted with the IVEWS participated in over 70 sorties, demonstrating consistent and stable performance.
The simulations conducted during the testing encompassed a broad spectrum of environmental conditions and mission scenarios. These included air-to-air, air-to-ground, and mixed threat engagements, showcasing the suite’s adaptability in a variety of operational settings. Notably, the IVEWS excelled in detecting, identifying, and countering complex modern radio frequency threats, strengthening the defense mechanisms of the aircraft.
James Conroy, vice president of Northrop Grumman’s navigation, targeting, and survivability division, emphasized that the successful tests affirm the suite’s capability to significantly enhance the survivability of fourth-generation platforms. He stated, “These successful flight tests showed the maturity and readiness of IVEWS to protect the F-16 fleet against the most advanced radio frequency threats – modernizing the Viper with the electronic warfare capabilities it needs to remain lethal and survivable for years to come.”
With the successful completion of these flight tests, the IVEWS is now cleared for production and deployment within the Air Force, with plans to equip up to 450 F-16s with this advanced suite.
The IVEWS is designed to compete with electronic warfare systems found in fifth-generation aircraft. It features a next-generation digital radar warning receiver and an advanced processor engineered specifically for electronic warfare applications. The technology demonstrated its readiness by successfully clearing initial ground testing last September, showcasing its ability to operate safely alongside other systems on the F-16 while efficiently countering modern radio frequency threats.
Northrop Grumman initiated the development of the IVEWS after receiving an 18-month “unpriced” contract to create a cutting-edge electronic warfare platform in 2022. The advancements represented by the IVEWS signify a pivotal step in fortifying the operational capabilities of the Air Force’s F-16 fleet against evolving threats, ensuring that these aircraft remain at the forefront of aerial combat effectiveness.
