US Air Force F-16s fitted with IVEWS set to take to the skies in 2024
IVEWS has been designed to provide the F-16 with a next-generation EW system. (Photo: Northrop Grumman)
Flight testing with the Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite should start before the end of the first quarter of 2024.
The US Air Force (USAF) has progressed with its efforts to modernise the EW capabilities of its F-16 fighter fleet and will start conducting flight trials with the AN/ALQ-257 Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite (IVEWS) in the coming months.
Speaking to Shephard, James Conroy, VP of navigation, targeting and survivability at Northrop Grumman, stressed that the system has already accomplished integration lab activity with the US government which was a ‘critical’ milestone.
“The US government has a couple of [F-16] jets that they are currently in process of modification and we look forward to starting flight tests by the
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![May drone digest: American loitering munition spending continues to drive market growth]()
May drone digest: American loitering munition spending continues to drive market growth
Loitering munition procurement has accelerated throughout May 2026 as militaries continue to prioritise the capability. The US has led this activity by advancing swarm-drone concepts, downselecting more drones for the Army’s LASSO programme, and awarding procurement contracts for various systems.
-
![Air forces review: Combat aircraft missile milestones hit as tanker and transport orders climb]()
Air forces review: Combat aircraft missile milestones hit as tanker and transport orders climb
As countries look to improve their combat aircraft capabilities, May has highlighted strong demand from European countries for aerial refuelling platforms as industry pushes forward next-generation missile test updates for eventual UK combat aircraft integration.
-
![Peru’s air combat modernisation effort opens up $2.5 billion market opportunity]()
Peru’s air combat modernisation effort opens up $2.5 billion market opportunity
The latest purchase of F-16V combat aircraft comes as the country presses ahead with its long-held plans to modernise its air combat capabilities and invest in the replacement of ageing Russian aircraft.
-
![Optimism remains for GCAP and FCAS future despite programme stumbling blocks]()
Optimism remains for GCAP and FCAS future despite programme stumbling blocks
Both sixth-generation combat aircraft programmes are still awaiting major key decisions from respective governments with regards to funding or future direction, but industry and governmental officials remain optimistic of progress going forward.
