L3Harris Technologies has successfully completed Safety of Flight (SOF) qualification for its Viper Shield electronic warfare (EW) system, designed for international F-16 fleets, according to a press release.
This achievement paves the way for flight testing, with deliveries expected to commence in late 2025.
The Viper Shield system underwent stringent environmental and electrical tests to assess its structural integrity, thermal and electrical safety, and aerodynamic compatibility with F-16 aircraft. The SOF testing confirmed the system’s ability to withstand the stresses of extreme flight manoeuvres, ensuring safety, reliability, and operational effectiveness.
“Completing the comprehensive SOF evaluation is a significant milestone for Viper Shield and for our growing list of global customers,” said Ed Zoiss, President of Space and Airborne Systems at L3Harris. “This critical electronic warfare system will begin flight testing soon, and we will start delivering the capability in late 2025.”
Viper Shield is designed to provide advanced situational awareness, enabling aircrews to detect, locate, and counter electronic threats in highly contested environments. It is currently the only advanced EW system in active production for international F-16 partners. The modular design ensures it can adapt to evolving challenges in the electromagnetic spectrum.
The Viper Shield programme is part of L3Harris Technologies’ wider portfolio of defence solutions, which integrate operations across air, space, land, sea, and cyber domains. The system’s forthcoming flight tests will further validate its capabilities ahead of deployment to six international partners.
