Berlin 27-Jun-2022

1000th software-defined airborne radio delivered for F-16

Rohde & Schwarz delivers 1000th radio to Lockheed Martin for integration on export F-16.

Handshake at ILA with: Alexander Walford, Country Director Germany, Lockheed Martin; Raymond Piselli, Vice President, International Business, Lockheed Martin; Stefan Pleyer, Vice President Avionics, Rohde & Schwarz; and Jeff Harwood, Sales Manager Avionics, Rohde & Schwarz. (Image: Rohde & Schwarz)

Rohde & Schwarz has delivered its 1000th AN/ARC-238 software-defined radio (SDR) to Lockheed Martin for integration on F-16 aircraft. The AN/ARC-238 consists of two airborne radios from the SOVERON radio family, namely the R&S MR6000R/L radios, and meets perfectly the secure communication requirements while being fully qualified on the F-16. AN/ARC-238 is the U.S. government designation for the independent company's R&S MR6000R/L radios.

“To reach this milestone is a great privilege and showcases our team’s ability to continuously produce and distribute high-quality software-defined airborne radios in support of the F-16,” says Stefan Pleyer, Vice President Market Segment Avionics, Rohde & Schwarz. “I am confident that our SOVERON radios make the F-16 even more efficient. We are proud to work with Lockheed Martin, delivering the 1000th SDR.”

“We congratulate Rohde & Schwarz on this milestone delivery of the 1000th software-defined radio (SDR) for the F-16; a strong demonstration of their longstanding partnership with Lockheed Martin and the F-16,” said Raymond Piselli, Vice President, International Business at Lockheed Martin. “The F-16 is a critical piece of the 21st century security network, offering advanced interoperable capabilities. With more than 3,000 F-16’s operating in 25 countries, we are focused on helping our customers seamlessly and securely connect all assets in the joint battlespace.”

Since many years, Rohde & Schwarz is the preferred supplier of airborne radio communications for the F-16 Program including the new production F-16 Block 70 aircraft for international customers. The F-16 Block 70 is the newest and most advanced F-16 configuration.

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Rohde & Schwarz is striving for a safer and connected world with its Test & Measurement, Technology Systems and Networks & Cybersecurity Divisions. For over 90 years, the global technology group has pushed technical boundaries with developments in cutting-edge technologies. The company's leading-edge products and solutions empower industrial, regulatory and government customers to attain technological and digital sovereignty. The privately owned, Munich based company can act independently, long-term and sustainably. Rohde & Schwarz generated net revenue of EUR 3.16 billion in the 2024/2025 fiscal year (July to June). On June 30, 2025, Rohde & Schwarz had more than 15,000 employees worldwide.

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