Michael Rigoni, Air Force Colonel and Electronic Warfare Program Manager at the F-16 System Program Office, said the PRR underscored the system’s importance in current threat environments. “Protecting allies in electromagnetic spectrum environments is critical to maintaining global security and stability,” said Michael Rigoni, Air Force Colonel and Electronic Warfare Program Manager, F-16 System Program Office, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. “L3Harris’ success in this PRR moves Viper Shield into low-rate initial production with full rate expected in Q1 ’26 and demonstrates its commitment to providing global F-16 fighter pilots a high-quality electronic warfare suite to meet those challenges.”
L3Harris highlighted that Viper Shield is the only advanced EW suite for the F-16 fully funded through partner nation development, already in production, and available in a Pod variant. The company said these features increase flexibility and reduce cost for international operators.
Ed Zoiss, President of Space and Airborne Systems at L3Harris, said the programme has support from several allied customers. “Viper Shield is an internationally backed system, supported by seven allied nations currently in production with a new Pod customer expected soon. These advancements make it the premier choice for all countries operating the F-16 Fighting Falcon,” said Ed Zoiss, President, Space and Airborne Systems, L3Harris. “Even the United States, both active duty and Guard units, could greatly benefit from this FMS-funded program.”
The PRR assessed design, manufacturing, quality controls and supply chain readiness, which are key elements for Foreign Military Sales programmes. The successful review confirmed Viper Shield’s ability to move into the production of 219 systems for seven partner nations.
L3Harris said new customers choosing Viper Shield will join an active manufacturing line supported by established quality assurance processes. The company added that its supply chain can meet the requirements of high-volume production.
Testing and validation work continues to confirm the system’s performance in demanding operational settings. L3Harris said this focus on hardware reliability and Manufacturing Readiness Levels has enabled it to scale production for rising global demand.
According to the company, Viper Shield will strengthen both offensive and defensive capabilities for international F-16 operators. L3Harris added that the system could also support the United States under an FMS-funded programme if required, offering a configurable electronic warfare solution for a range of missions.
