Aviation News – The Peruvian government has selected L3Harris Technologies to equip its new F-16 Block 70 aircraft fleet with the state-of-the-art Viper Shield electronic warfare system. This defense acquisition significantly enhances the Peruvian Air Force’s operational readiness while aligning its aerial defensive standards with global allied nations.
The decision marks a critical milestone in modernizing Peru’s air defense architecture as the nation acquires the advanced F-16 Block 70 variant. Designed specifically for the latest generation of F-16 aircraft in collaboration with Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Air Force, the Viper Shield system acts as a virtual “digital armor” around the jet. By selecting this system, Peru ensures its air fleet achieves direct tactical interoperability with international partners operating the same advanced multirole platform.
Integrating the Viper Shield system delivers robust offensive and defensive electronic countermeasures against hostile forces. The all-digital electronic warfare suite allows pilots to detect, disrupt, and suppress adversary radars, guided missiles, and complex radio-frequency threats in real time. With modern battlespaces increasingly shaped by electronic spectrum interference, this technology provides the essential protection necessary to complete high-risk missions safely.
From a technical standpoint, Viper Shield utilizes a software-defined architecture that enables rapid adaptability without requiring physical hardware overhauls. The system features a fully integrated digital radar warning receiver and digital radio frequency memory jamming capabilities, allowing it to rapidly identify agile radar threats and deploy targeted countermeasures. Its lower component count and streamlined design lower long-term maintenance costs while offering high operational reliability during critical air intercept operations.
“We are focused on providing Peru with a low-risk EW solution through the active production line, flight test program and supply chain,” said Christopher Aebli, President, Communications & Spectrum Dominance, L3Harris. “Eight nations have selected Viper Shield, and we’re ramping up to full-rate production of 233 systems.”
This contract solidifies Peru’s position as a key regional operator with modern air-to-air and air-to-surface defense capabilities. As L3Harris continues scaling production across global customer orders, Peru’s choice underscores a broader defense trend toward software-driven countermeasure systems. Deliveries of the Viper Shield suite will ensure the Peruvian Air Force maintains air superiority and technological deterrence for decades to come.
