BAE Systems IFF system clears certification for F-16 integration

BAE Systems has completed Allied Identification Mark System certification for its AN/APX-127(V)1 Combined Interrogator Transponder, a step that lets the US Air Force move ahead with testing the equipment on the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The company said the achievement is a significant milestone on the path to fielding a next-generation Identification Friend or Foe system.

The certification confirms the system meets a standard interoperable between the United States and NATO, according to BAE Systems. The company told The Aviationist that the approval applies at the box level, with further trials planned at the aircraft level.

The AN/APX-127(V)1 is designed to take the place of several Combined Interrogator Transponders now fitted to F-16s, among them the AN/APX-113(V), AN/APX-125(V) and AN/APX-126(V). Those units are in service on multiple F-16 blocks and derivative aircraft flown by the US and other nations.

BAE Systems says the new system keeps the same physical form factor as the units it replaces, allowing it to be installed as a drop-in replacement and cutting the modification work needed to upgrade aircraft already carrying older CITs.