Viper Shield Pod EW System: L3Harris Unveils New EW Solution for ROKAF KF-16s at Seoul ADEX 2025
L3Harris Technologies has introduced the Viper Shield Pod Electronic Warfare (EW) system at Seoul ADEX 2025, marking its debut in South Korea. The system is designed to provide the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) with a next-generation, low-risk self-protection capability for its KF-16 fleet. It is built on the same architecture as the Viper Shield suite already selected by seven U.S. partner nations, including Poland. The new pod delivers a proven and easily upgradeable electronic defence solution.
Key Facts
- Event: Seoul ADEX 2025, Seoul Air Base
- System: Viper Shield Pod EW System
- Platform: KF-16 Fighting Falcon (Block 52)
- Manufacturer: L3Harris Technologies
- Development Status: Podded version now in flight testing
- Partners: Bombardier, IAI ELTA, Korean Air (AEW&C programme)
- Market Aim: Upgrade and EW modernisation for ROKAF F-16 fleet
A Low-Risk EW Upgrade Path for ROKAF
According to Travis “Posum” Ruhl, Director of International Business Development and EW Subject Matter Expert at L3Harris Space & Airborne Systems, the Viper Shield Pod offers “the lowest-risk solution for the ROKAF.” The system shares Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) and production assets with the internal Viper Shield EW suite already in production for Lockheed Martin’s F-16 Block 70 aircraft.
“We’re already building the internal system,” Ruhl explained. “Reconfiguring it into a pod kept the same transmitters and pre-amplifiers—the core of the system—while making it a cost-effective upgrade for legacy F-16s.” Consequently, the shared design shortens integration time, lowers cost, and ensures consistent performance across platforms.
Fully Digital and Wideband Protection
The Viper Shield Pod is an all-digital EW system engineered for fast detection and response. It provides wideband threat monitoring, precise identification, and automated countermeasure deployment. Using Digital Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM) and wideband receivers, it reacts instantly across the entire electromagnetic spectrum. As a result, pilots benefit from enhanced situational awareness and survivability.
Ruhl compared the system to “electronic armour.” He explained that automation reduces pilot workload and increases mission success rates. “It’s the pod I would’ve wanted as an F-16 pilot myself,” he added.
Furthermore, the system’s modular and digital design allows easier upgrades and integration with future aircraft systems, ensuring longevity and adaptability within modern air operations.
Complementary AEW&C Programme Strengthens Korean Capabilities
In addition to Viper Shield, L3Harris is expanding its footprint in South Korea with a contract to deliver Bombardier Global 6500-based AEW&C aircraft to the ROKAF. Partnering with Bombardier, Israel Aerospace Industries’ ELTA Systems, and Korean Air, the company aims to provide advanced early-warning and control capabilities. This cooperation supports Seoul’s strategic objective of improving regional air surveillance and joint-force coordination.
Strategic Implications for Regional EW Development
The ROKAF continues modernising its Block 52 F-16s under the F-16V upgrade programme. The availability of both internal and podded Viper Shield configurations offers flexibility for fleet-wide EW standardisation. As the only fully digital pod-mounted EW solution currently available for F-16 aircraft, Viper Shield enhances the ROKAF’s operational resilience and L3Harris’s standing in the Asia-Pacific EW market.
