Lockheed chooses Rohde & Schwarz’s SDR solution for F-16 Block 70

Lockheed Martin selected Rohde & Schwarz to supply its AN / ARC-238 software-defined radio (SDR) for the latest production configuration of the F-16.

As the preferred radio communications provider, Rohde & Schwarz will provide an SDR solution for the installation of F-16 Block 70 aircraft for allied countries in the United States.

Stefan Pleyer, Vice President of Rohde & Schwarz Avionics, said: “The capabilities provided by our software-defined radio stations are changing the game for any air force flying an F-16.

“We are proud to work with Lockheed Martin, supplying AN / ARC-238 SDRs for (F-16) Block 70. The excellent RF performance of the SDR makes it suitable for military applications, including all types of air platforms.”

The company’s AN / ARC-238 SDR solution includes a remote-controlled transceiver installed in avionics. Another transceiver, controlled by a control panel, is integrated in the cockpit.

The air radio system provides a frequency range from 30MHz to 400MHz.

To counter eavesdropping and jamming attacks that pose a threat to military radio communications, Rohde & Schwarz’s R&S SECOS integrates COMSEC and TRANSEC functionality in a waveform.

The contract comes after Lockheed Martin awarded Rohde & Schwarz Elite provider status for its F-16 services.

Pleyer added: “Rohde & Schwarz is very proud to have received ELITE supplier status, recognizing our proven commitment to quality and accountability.”

The Block 70 configuration extends the structural life of the fighter by more than 50% over that of the previous version of the F-16.

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