BAE Systems to enhance F-16 maintenance cybersecurity
Two countries are fielding the BAE Systems Viper MLV II via FMS for the F-16 Block 70/72. (Photo: US DoD)
BAE Systems has released the Viper Memory Loader Verifier II (MLV II) as a new version of its maintenance capability that reduces vulnerability to cyber-attacks for the F-16, the company announced on 12 October.
The Viper MLV II can load and verify software into the aircraft, it supports mission data file loads, flight and fault data downloading and third-party application software.
BAE Systems says the cybersecurity capability supports over 100 onboard systems for the F-16, which includes mission and flight critical systems such as radar, EW, mission and flight control computers, crash survival data recorders, engine control systems and navigation and communications systems.
Two undisclosed countries are fielding the Viper MLV II via US Foreign Military Sales for the F-16 Block 70/72, ordering six systems with the potential for a further 15 systems.
The Viper MLV II will be developed and manufactured at BAE Systems’ Fort Worth site in Texas.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
Northrop Grumman to fly new Project Talon CCA by late 2026
The newly unveiled collaborative combat aircraft looks to strike a balance between capability and cost-effectiveness, according to the company.
-
MBDA and Lockheed move closer to F-35A Meteor flight tests
Following the completion of successful ground tests, one more exercise remains before flight testing can begin.
-
Leonardo’s Proteus concludes ground tests with maiden flight on horizon
The technology demonstrator forms part of a wider effort to help the Royal Navy explore the potential of uncrewed systems supporting its existing crewed aviation platforms.
-
Airbus MQ-72C Lakota Connector progress on track ahead of pending USMC decision
The MQ-7C uncrewed aircraft is currently undergoing further internal flight tests ahead of a government test event anticipated for next year.