Peru has selected L3Harris Technologies’ Viper Shield electronic warfare suite for its F-16 Block 70 fighter aircraft, providing an additional layer of protection against radar and electronic threats. The system is designed to detect, identify, and counter threats such as enemy radars and missiles while supporting the aircraft’s offensive and defensive missions. Peru acquired 12 F-16s in April as part of an estimated $1.5 billion purchase, reducing its original plan for 24 aircraft. The acquisition is intended to strengthen the country’s aging fighter fleet and improve interoperability with other F-16 operators. Viper Shield, designated AN/ALQ-254(V)1, combines a digital radar warning receiver with radio-frequency memory-based jamming technology. Its software-defined architecture can be integrated internally or carried as an external pod and is designed to work with the F-16’s APG-83 AESA radar. The system also provides a pathway for future electronic warfare upgrades as threats evolve.
