The Royal Armed Forces have confirmed the procurement of the cutting-edge “F16 BLOCK 72” aircraft featuring the latest “Viper Shield” electronic warfare suite, designed by the American tech giant L3Harris Technologies.
At the Dubai Air Show, “Breaking Defense” revealed Morocco’s inclusion among nations set to acquire this specialized system exclusively designed for “F16” Block 70/72 fighters.
An official from L3Harris mentioned, “Morocco, Taiwan, Bahrain, Bulgaria, and Slovakia—each slated to receive modern F16 Block 70/72 aircraft—will also be equipped with this advanced system.”
Anna Gragossian, leading international electronic warfare development at L3Harris, highlighted, “The Viper Shield program, known as the Third Landing, features a primary radar warning receiver capable of detecting potential adversary radar activity, aiding pilots in evading or confronting threats.”
“This system, developed in collaboration with the US Air Force and Lockheed Martin, not only identifies threats but also provides self-protection and disrupts adversaries’ signals.”
Scheduled for crucial developmental phases in December, the system anticipates production by the last quarter of 2025, per the same source.
Lockheed Martin had previously announced Morocco’s acquisition of a squadron of “F-16 Block 72” aircraft in 2021, yet details regarding the exact order size or delivery date remain undisclosed.
These aircraft, among the most advanced in the F16 series, closely resemble F-35 specifications, especially concerning fifth-generation military electronics.
Regarding “Viper Shield,” or the “Advanced EW System,” it forms a virtual electronic shield around the aircraft, enabling pilots to navigate complex battle scenarios securely.
The system aims to confuse adversaries, provide early threat warnings, and deploy counter-digital capabilities.
The manufacturer affirms on its website, “This system equips US allies with advanced countermeasures against evolving threats.”
The Royal Armed Forces’ air capabilities are undergoing unprecedented enhancement, marked by maintenance, modernization efforts, and significant deals like Boeing’s commencement of the “Apache” helicopter production.
The addition of “Apache” aircraft and the modernization of “F16” fighters are pivotal in elevating Moroccan military aviation capabilities, particularly for monitoring the Kingdom’s southern regions.
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