BAE Systems receives certification for new F-16 combat identification technology

BAE Systems has received AIMS certification from the Department of War for its new Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) solution, the AN/APX-127(V)1 Combined Interrogator Transponder (CIT). Designed for the US Air Force’s F-16 Fighting Falcon, the system is interoperable with both US and NATO standards.

The new CIT consolidates interrogator and transponder functions into a single unit, improving situational awareness and decision-making in contested or crowded airspace. It features an open-system architecture, allowing for software upgrades to meet evolving mission requirements without the need for costly hardware modifications.

As a drop-in replacement for existing models such as the AN/APX-113(V), AN/APX-125(V), and AN/APX-126(V), the system maintains the same form factor to simplify the modernization of current aircraft fleets. The technology includes AIMS Mark XIIB IFF certification with Mode S and Mode 5 capabilities to support secure, encrypted data exchange and enhanced cybersecurity resilience.