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RNoAF F-16's to undergo important upgrades

October 18, 2004 (by Anonymous) - F-16 Vipers from the RNoAF are scheduled to get the Helmet Mounted Cueing System, and the Link 16 tactical datalink upgrades. A possibility of adding live video feed to their PANTERA Targeting Pods is also looked into.

RNoAF F-16AM #670 parked on the tarmac, equipped with the brand-new Pantera targeting pod, during the Maple Flag exercise in 2004. [Photo by William Gilson]

The F-16s of the ROyal Norwegian Air Force are currently undergoing the M3 upgrade of the MLU program. Some of the main elements in this upgrade includes the Link 16 tactical datalink and the Helmet Mounted Cueing System, for easier and faster target acquisition.

Every last one of the RNoAF's 57 F-16s is expected to be fully upgraded by the end of 2008. But already in 2006 the M4 upgrade is scheduled to begin.

Last year the RNoAF aquired 8 PANTERA Targeting Pods, a very advanced long range FLIR pod to assist with target acquisition. With the mounting of an extra sensor on this pod, an opportunity of realtime video feed from the aircraft has been made possible.

The primary use of live video feed to the FAC's (Forward Air Controllers) would be faster target identifications, lower risk of bombing the wrong targets and a greater overview of the relevant target area. The RNoAF is the first AF outside of the US to take this technology into closer consideration.

They are now undergoing testing of the system flying out of Bodø AFB, with technicians from Lockheed Martin present to assist them.

Whether or not the RNoAF decides to upgrade their pods with this sensor remains uncertain.