The U.S. Air Force awarded Northrop Grumman Corporation a contract to prepare the AN/ALQ-257 Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite (IVEWS) for developmental testing and hardware qualification.
IVEWS utilizes ultra-wideband architecture to provide instantaneous bandwidth needed to defeat modern threats. The F-16 system is included within a product line capable of adapting to various platforms.
“We continue the process of putting IVEWS through a rigorous testing program to ensure that it will be ready to protect warfighters,” said James Conroy, vice president of navigation, targeting, and survivability at Northrop Grumman. “As advanced radiofrequency threats proliferate, the capabilities IVEWS will provide are critical for the fourth-generation fighter fleet.”
The hardware and software verification tests are slated in advance of F-16 flights scheduled for later this year. Northrop Grumman would continue to develop the infrastructure needed to move the system to production upon the completion of testing.
Last year, IVEWS and AN/APG-83 SABR radar proved to be proficient in pulse-to-pulse interoperability during the Northern Lightning joint exercise – successfully addressing varied airborne and ground-based threats.
Northrop Grumman officials noted the company equips customers with capabilities needed to connect, advance, and protect the United States and its allies.