# L3Harris Viper Shield F-16 development > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/l3harris-viper-shield-f-16-development > Updated: 2026-09-03T08:39:32.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. L3Harris Technologies has progressed from the testing phase to the production phase of its Viper Shield electronic warfare system for F-16 fighters. Initial flight tests conducted at Edwards Air Force Base involved F-16C and F-16D aircraft. These tests confirmed the system’s ability to detect and counter radar-guided threats while integrating with existing avionics. Lauren Barnes, President of Spectrum Superiority at L3Harris, stated that the two-ship flights were “another strong example that the system is performing as intended.” Following these validations, L3Harris completed the first production run of 35 Viper Shield systems. The technology, which provides ‘digital armor’ for the aircraft, is compatible with F-16 Block 70/72 models and the APG-83 radar. With 233 systems currently ordered by eight allied nations, the company is moving toward full-rate production. This international investment also provides an opportunity for the U.S. Air Force and National Guard to utilize the technology. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-03: L3Harris completes first production of Viper Shield systems for F-16 fleet L3Harris Technologies has produced the first 35 Viper Shield electronic warfare systems for the global F-16 fleet, supporting 233 orders from eight allied nations. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/l3harris-completes-first-production-of-viper-shield-systems-for-f-16-fleet ### 2026-08-06: L3Harris validates Viper Shield EW system on paired F‑16s in US flight tests L3Harris completed two‑ship flight tests of Viper Shield on F‑16C/D at Edwards AFB, confirming its threat‑detecting EW capabilities and advancing the system toward operational delivery. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/l3harris-validates-viper-shield-ew-system-on-paired-f16s-in-us-flight-tests --- Cite as: L3Harris Viper Shield F-16 development. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/l3harris-viper-shield-f-16-development