Lockheed Martin demonstrates networked Legion IRST on F-16s

Lockheed Martin says it has demonstrated a dedicated pod-to-pod data link for its Legion infrared search-and-track (IRST) sensor system, enabling two F-16 fighters to share passive sensor information in flight. The company carried out recent flight tests in Tucson, Arizona, using Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Test Center aircraft operating from Morris Air National Guard Base. Two F-16s fitted with Legion pods connected via a pre-production version of L3Harris’ HiveLink data link. Lockheed Martin reports the shared data improved track accuracy and delivered near-instantaneous range solutions for multiple airborne targets. Legion is a passive IRST designed to detect and track without radar emissions, and it is being flight-tested under contract with the Air National Guard.