US integrates Harpoon missile into F-16 fighter jet using new method
The US Air Force has successfully tested a new method of rapid weapon integration by installing the US Navy's Harpoon missile on an F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jet. The test took place at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada under the leadership of the 3rd Squadron, 53rd Group.
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Unlike traditional methods that take years, the new approach allows aircraft to be quickly adapted to modern threats without costly modifications. The key element was the gateway system, which acts as an intermediary between the missile and the aircraft, ensuring seamless interaction without physical changes to the structure.
Thanks to this technology, testers were able to significantly reduce integration time while maintaining the effectiveness of combat systems. This opens up the possibility of rapid deployment of new weapons on various types of aircraft, increasing their combat readiness.
Illustrative image of the Harpoon missile. Illustration: Boeing
The project manager noted that optimising the middleware instead of physically upgrading the aircraft could form the basis for future integration solutions. This will contribute to greater flexibility in operational planning and faster response to threats.
This breakthrough in the weaponisation process avoids bureaucratic delays and increases the efficiency of the US Air Force, which is critical in the face of the dynamic evolution of modern threats.
Source: Defence Industry Europe
