BAE Systems has launched a new version of its Viper Memory Loader Verifier (MLV) maintenance capability, reducing the F-16’s vulnerability to cyberattacks.
The Viper MLV II provides enhanced accuracy on mission data file loads, flight and fault data downloading, and third-party application software. It can also load and verify software onto the aircraft.
“Our first generation Viper MLV has 20 years of proven reliability and durability in challenging flight line environments,” said Carl Huncharek, the company’s F-16 product line director.
“This new version of the product will include cyber-hardened aircraft mission capabilities, with an open system architecture that reduces lifecycle costs.”
The system supports more than 100 onboard systems, “including mission and flight critical systems, such as the radar, electronic warfare, mission and flight control computers, crash survivable data recorders, engine control systems, navigation, and communications systems,” BAE said.
F-16 Fleet Compatible
Two undisclosed nations are already fielding the Viper MLV II for their F-16 Block 70/72 aircraft through the US’ foreign military sales program.
The contract secured six systems, with the potential for 15 more.
The systems are “fully compatible with the entire F-16 fleet and will use existing interface cables,” BAE said.
