Survitec has achieved a major milestone in the Aircrew Flight Equipment (AFE) development programme for the F-16 Viper Block 70/72, marking a significant milestone with the successful completion of the approval process in August 2024. This programme represents the culmination of a dedicated three-year effort during which the Survitec engineering team developed an advanced AFE ensemble, now approved and set to be supplied throughout the life of the F-16 Block 70/72 configuration.
The newly developed AFE ensemble, which includes a Flight Jacket with an integrated Life Preserver and Lightweight Coverall, is Designed to integrate with the Martin Baker US18E ejection seat and pilot life support systems. In addition to enhancing safety, the ensemble has been meticulously engineered to maximise comfort for pilots during extended missions. The AFE system leverages the advanced design principles originally developed for the F-35 programme, representing a significant stepped improvement from legacy AFE performance standards. These systems are engineered to parallel the technology and performance standards of the F-35. The system is available in both sage green and desert tan to ensure operational effectiveness across all mission profiles and environments.
With the AFE approval secured, Survitec is now transitioning to serial production for Taiwan and Morocco, with a long pipeline of nations requiring this retrofit to follow. As global leaders in sizing, Survitec offers AFE systems in the full anthropometric range, ensuring that every pilot globally receives equipment tailored to their specific physical dimensions. The first production assets are scheduled for dispatch in January 2025, and the deliveries will be fulfilled from Survitec’s Ohio Facility, one of four Survitec Berry compliant manufacturing facilities in the US, ahead of the first planned flight of the new configuration jets at Greenville, South Carolina. This marks a significant milestone for the programme as a fully qualified AFE system is delivered, specifically designed for F-16 Viper and approved by the aircraft OEM Lockheed Martin.
“Securing approval for our next generation F-16 system is a reflection of our commitment to redefine AFE performance standards with the new F-16 Viper AFE," said Nick Mulhall, Commercial Director – Aerospace and Defence, Survitec. "Our goal remains to elevate pilot protection, comfort and performance, aligning the F-16 Viper configuration with the advanced standards established by the F-35 programme. This milestone highlights the critical role our AFE plays in enhancing not only safety but comfort and operational effectiveness, surpassing the capabilities of legacy systems. We are proud to expand our reach and continue our mission to protect the lives of pilots worldwide.”
Shaun McInerney, Engineering and Quality Director at Survitec, commented, "Our extensive experience in designing and qualifying systems across more than 30 fast jet and training platforms globally has allowed us to set new benchmarks for pilot and aircrew safety and comfort. The F-16 development, informed by the latest design principles employed in the F-35 programme, reflects our commitment to delivering solutions that meet the exacting standards of today’s combat and training environments. As we continue to advance this programme, the F-16 Viper will benefit from a trajectory of ongoing upgrades and technology refreshes, ensuring it remains at the forefront of operational capability throughout its lifecycle".