Northrop Grumman and L3Harris have both expressed interest in supplying a new electronic warfare (EW) suite for Poland’s F-16 fighter jets, which are set to receive a mid-life upgrade.
A representative from Northrop told Breaking Defense that the company aims to offer its AN/ALQ-257 Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite (IVEWS) for the fourth-generation aircraft.
This “ultra-wideband suite” can detect, identify, and counter advanced radio-frequency threats, enhancing aircraft survivability in congested electromagnetic spectrum environments.
The IVEWS includes a cutting-edge radar warning receiver, advanced processor, and high-powered transmitters tailored to the size and power requirements of the F-16.
Northrop recently conducted an anechoic chamber test of the AN/ALQ-257, marking the first time it was installed on the warplane.
L3Harris’ Pitch
L3Harris is pitching its all-digital AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield as the EW solution for Polish F-16s.
The company stated that its EW suite is designed to maximize the aircraft’s survivability and mission success.
It integrates commercial-off-the-shelf technologies to enhance overall performance and facilitate seamless future upgrades.
“This advanced EW system will provide a virtual electronic shield around the aircraft, enabling warfighters to complete missions safely in increasingly complex battlespace scenarios,” L3Harris stated on its website.
Company official Anna Gragossian said late last year that the AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield will undergo further evaluation to determine its effectiveness in jamming adversary signals and providing increased protection to aircrews.
Ambitious Upgrade
In 2023, Washington approved Poland’s request for a mid-life upgrade of its fleet of 48 F-16 multi-role fighters.
Though not specified, the $389-million deal could transform the Polish aircraft from Block 50 to the latest Block 70/72 configuration.
According to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the modernization will bolster Warsaw’s ability to address current and future threats by increasing the reliability of its F-16 fleet.