Poland modernizes 48 F-16 fighter jets to Viper standard in partnership with the US

English Posted on  —by Carro e motos
Poland modernizes 48 F-16 fighters to Viper standard in partnership with the US
Poland modernizes 48 F-16 fighters to Viper standard in partnership with the US (X @LockheedMartin)

Poland has signed an agreement with the United States to upgrade its 48 F-16 Block 52+ fighters to the F-16 Viper standard, which provides enhanced combat capability and extends the aircraft’s service life.

Lockheed Martin will be the primary contractor for the program, while maintenance and integration will be handled locally by WZL-2 in Bydgoszcz.

The upgrade includes the installation of the APG-83 AESA radar, new mission electronics systems, a high-resolution central display, and electronic warfare equipment. Advanced systems will also be incorporated into pilot helmets, along with the Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod and an automatic collision-avoidance system, plus structural modifications that increase the fighters’ durability to 12,000 flight hours.

According to Lockheed Martin, the improvements keep the Polish fleet compatible with fifth-generation aircraft such as the F-35, enhancing its role in NATO missions. The company also highlighted that the program will strengthen the country’s defense industry by expanding local capability, generating technology transfer, and contributing to the development of Poland’s aerospace sector.

Source: UK Defence Journal | Photo: X @LockheedMartin | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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