L3Harris Technologies’ Viper Shield electronic warfare system has conducted a series of two-ship flights at Edwards Air Force Base, California. The F-16C and D models flew together for the first time with Viper Shield hardware during testing. The milestone further validates Viper Shield’s readiness to deliver advanced protection and situational awareness to F‑16 pilots worldwide.
Validating Performance in Realistic, Multi‑Aircraft Scenarios
The flight tests centered on validating Viper Shield’s performance by ensuring the system could detect, identify and counter modern electromagnetic threats while maintaining interoperability with the aircraft’s avionics. Test teams stressed its digital architecture and real-time response in multiple mission profiles.
“The two-ship flights with Viper Shield are another strong example that the system is performing as intended,” said Lauren Barnes, President, Spectrum Superiority, Communications & Spectrum Dominance, L3Harris. “Viper Shield is showing exceptional threat awareness and rapid reaction capability throughout the flight test campaign at Edwards.”
F‑16C and F‑16D Testing Expands the Envelope
Viper Shield is the only electronic warfare system in production today that has a small form factor to fit the range of F-16 blocks. Available as an internally integrated system or as a self‑contained pod, Viper Shield provides digital armor around the aircraft. Its software-defined architecture uses commercial-off-the-shelf technology to reduce pod weight and accommodate easier upgrades.
The F‑16C is the primary combat variant and allows engineers to assess system behavior under authentic combat loadouts, sensor configurations and electronic warfare employment profiles. The F‑16D model, commonly used for training and multi-crew missions, provides a platform for validating system maturity across a broader set of flight conditions and mission configurations.
Barnes highlighted the close partnership with the U.S. Air Force test community to validate both capability and mission readiness.
“The collaboration with Air Force pilots, engineers and the broader test community is instrumental,” said Barnes. “Their operational insight and disciplined approach put Viper Shield through its paces in realistic environments.”
Production Ramping to Meet Global Demand
L3Harris is ramping up to full-rate production of the 233 systems currently planned. Eight nations have selected Viper Shield, and additional partner nations will benefit from an active production line with robust quality assurance and a supply chain capable of meeting the demands of large-scale manufacturing.
“Each successful test brings us closer to delivering Viper Shield operationally,” said Barnes. “Our team is already focused on the next phases of integration and full-rate production. Operators are counting on this capability, and we are committed to delivering it with precision and urgency.”
