BAE Systems’ IFF solution receives AIMS certification

BAE Systems’ new Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) AN/APX-127(V)1 Combined Interrogator Transponder (CIT) received AIMS certification from the US Department of War for the US Air Force’s F-16 Fighting Falcon.

The AIMS certification is a US and NATO interoperable standard that marks the IFF solution ready for use. This next-generation CIT will improve identification and enable enhanced decision making to distinguish between allied forces and potential threats in contested scenarios.

Why an open-system architecture enables easier upgrades to maintain interoperability

The modernised system consolidates interrogator and transponder functions into one box for highly manoeuvrable aircraft. The design ensures ongoing versatility to meet current and future mission requirements that support the war fighter in the evolving battlespace.

Its open-system architecture allows for software upgrades, reducing the risk and cost associated with hardware modifications. With the same form factor, it is a drop-in replacement for the AN/APX-113(V), AN/APX-125(V), and AN/APX-126(V) CITs, which are currently operating on multiple US and international platforms.

Seth Guanu, Combat Identification Products programme area director at BAE Systems, said: “We are investing in the next generation of our IFF technology to support our customers’ missions for today and tomorrow. Our multi-domain systems are designed for high-performance, easily upgradeable and meet size, weight and power objectives for existing and emerging platforms.

“This solution provides added security and real-time information pilots need in a variety of threat environments.”

How advanced multifunction capabilities help support future security requirements

The new CIT provides advanced, multifunction capabilities while supporting the latest crypto and cybersecurity resilience requirements. It is AIMS Mark XIIB IFF certified with Mode S and Mode 5 for secure and encrypted data exchange.

It enhances situational awareness for war fighters with additional receive channels for passive acquisition of Mode 5 Level 2 and Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast In.

Leveraging advanced technology and architecture, BAE Systems’ next-generation IFF solutions address obsolescence and increase processing capacity to enable future capability needs. With more than 80 years of experience, the company has delivered over 1,500 interrogators, 6,000 combined interrogator transponder systems and 16,000 transponders.

IFF products are available for all service branches and support the US and coalition forces in air defence, weapon systems, air traffic control and range instrumentation.

Work on the AN/APX-127(V)1 CIT is being conducted at BAE Systems’ facilities in Greenlawn, NY and Austin, Texas. The company expects to start delivering on the first 90-unit production lot later this year.