Poland has selected L3Harris’ AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield to serve as the electronic warfare suite for its F-16 Viper upgrade initiative, aimed at bringing the fleet of 48 Block 52 fighters up to Block 70 standards. The deal underscores Poland’s push to modernize its combat aviation capabilities amid evolving security challenges.
Competing in the tender was Northrop Grumman’s AN/ALQ-257 IVEWS, a system already cleared for F-16 Block 70/72 aircraft and available as a retrofit solution. Despite its offering, L3Harris secured the program, furthering the adoption of Viper Shield among global F-16 operators.
The Viper Shield suite provides aircraft with an all-digital protective layer, enabling safe operation in contested environments. By fusing advanced jamming capabilities with radar detection systems, it ensures pilots can conduct missions with higher confidence and survivability.
The internally mounted package includes a state-of-the-art radar warning receiver seamlessly integrated with the APG-83 AESA radar. This configuration not only enhances threat detection but also streamlines defensive responses, making the F-16 more effective in complex missions.
