USN orders Link 16 for Viper and Venom modifications
UH-1Y Venom (pictured) and AH-1Z Viper helicopters operated by the USMC will receive Link 16 B kits. (Photo: USMC/Lance Cpl Clare McIntire)
Northrop Grumman obtains a two-year deal to provide Link 16 B kits for UH-1Y and AH-1Z helicopters.
Northrop Grumman on 21 September was awarded a $30.92 million firm-price-incentive-fee contract from US Naval Air Systems Command for 25 Link 16 B kits; three Link 16 B kit spares; and two Link
16 flight training device B kits in support of Bell UH-1Y Venom and Bell AH-1Z Viper helicopter modification efforts for the USMC.
This contract also covers Link 16 systems engineering, programme management and logistics support, the DoD announced.
Northrop Grumman is expected to complete the work in September 2023.
Link 16 is the main US and NATO tactical data link. Shephard Defence Insight notes that it supports the exchange of surveillance data, EW data, mission tasking, weapons assignments and control data.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![UK MoD unveils first steps for British Army Watchkeeper replacement]()
UK MoD unveils first steps for British Army Watchkeeper replacement
Project Corvus will look for a replacement for the Watchkeeper Mk1 uncrewed aerial system (UAS) that was retired from service in the British Army in March 2025.
-
![Sweden requests approval to pursue Gripen and GlobalEye sales to Peru and Denmark]()
Sweden requests approval to pursue Gripen and GlobalEye sales to Peru and Denmark
The Swedish Government has asked parliament to authorise two possible export sales as part of its 2025 Spring amending budget bill.
-
![Germany confirms loitering munitions contracts for its armed forces]()
Germany confirms loitering munitions contracts for its armed forces
Contracts for the procurement of two platforms have been signed, and will be tested by the German armed forces.
-
![Spanish Air Force receives first converted A330 MRTT]()
Spanish Air Force receives first converted A330 MRTT
The second and third Airbus A330 MRTT for the Spanish Air Force have been undergoing conversion in Getafe, Madrid.
-
![Indonesia commits to further collaboration with Turkey, eyes Kaan jet and MILDEN programmes]()
Indonesia commits to further collaboration with Turkey, eyes Kaan jet and MILDEN programmes
The two countries have already signed defence industrial partnerships in recent years, most recently between Republikorp and Turkish firm Baykar in February 2025.
