F-16 fighter jets test passive infrared targeting technology

U.S. National Guard F-16 fighter jets have successfully completed tests in Arizona using new technology to detect targets without activating radar. By utilizing the HiveLink system developed by L3Harris, two aircraft were able to exchange infrared search and track data to accurately determine a target's distance through triangulation.

The technology relies on Lockheed Martin’s Legion IRST modules, which detect the thermal radiation of enemy aircraft. This passive approach allows pilots to identify threats without being detected by enemy radar warning systems. Previously, a major technical limitation was the inability to precisely determine the distance to a target using infrared alone.

Lockheed Martin program director Christine Stengel stated, “We are transforming a proven infrared search system into a battlefield-ready, network-based passive platform.” The Legion module is designed for integration into F-15 and F-16 platforms, as well as unmanned aerial vehicles, supporting the U.S. Air Force’s broader Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) strategy.