Create a free starter account, or log in.

Get access to four free articles per month, as well as our Decisive Edge Newsletters and Daily News Bulletin.

Email Address

Password

Forgot your password? Reset by clicking here

Create a Password

[[ req.met ? '✓' : '•' ]] [[ req.text ]]

Re-enter Password

Passwords do not match

First Name

Last Name

Country

Confirm your account

Please enter the four-digit pin below that has been emailed to you.

Didn't receive the pin yet?

This pin expires in 20 minutes.

[[ error ]]

By creating an account, you agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Stay informed with Shephard's award-winning journalism. Unlock unlimited access and in-depth analysis with a corporate or individual subscription.

Explore your options here

USAF tests Harpoon missile integration on F-16 aircraft

4th March 2025 - 15:25 GMT | by Lucy Powell

RSS

The test showcased a viable pathway for integrating the Harpoon quickly onto existing platforms without requiring modifications. (Photo: U.S. Air Force / Airman 1st Class Timothy Perish)

The integration of the Harpoon missile on the Lockheed Martin fighter worked to showcase the rapid speed at which a ‘gateway system’ integration can add new capabilities to aircraft.

The 53^rd Test and Evaluation Group (TEG) of the US Air Force (USAF) has announced a successful integration and test of a US Navy AGM-84 Harpoon missile onto an F-16 fighter jet at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, on 27 February.

According to the USAF, the team developed a gateway system that allowed for communication between the missile and aircraft without needing modifications to either platform.

By leveraging this approach, the team sped up the integration process, and reportedly demonstrated a faster, more efficient process for adding new weapons capabilities to the F-16 aircraft.

The chief project manager for

Already have an account? Log in