WS Investor
16 Sep 2026, 15:22
Lockheed Martin Demonstrates Networked Legion Sensor System on F-16s
Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) successfully demonstrated a new pod-to-pod data link for its Legion sensor system during F-16 flight tests with the U.S. Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Test Center.
Two F-16s equipped with Legion pods connected through L3Harris’ HiveLink data link and shared sensor information in flight, improving target-track accuracy. The capability allows pilots to establish near-instantaneous engagement solutions against multiple airborne targets, particularly in contested or radar-denied environments.
Legion is a passive infrared search-and-track system, meaning aircraft can detect and track airborne targets without relying on active radar emissions. Connecting multiple Legion-equipped aircraft allows their sensor data to be combined, providing more accurate range and positioning information while reducing pilot workload and shortening engagement timelines.
Lockheed Martin is continuing F-16 flight testing and plans further development involving software-defined radios, multi-waveform gateways and manned-unmanned teaming. Legion is already in production for the U.S. Air Force and can operate across F-15 and F-16 platforms, with its open architecture supporting integration into additional fighter and unmanned aircraft.
Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) successfully demonstrated a new pod-to-pod data link for its Legion sensor system during F-16 flight tests with the U.S. Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Test Center.
Two F-16s equipped with Legion pods connected through L3Harris’ HiveLink data link and shared sensor information in flight, improving target-track accuracy. The capability allows pilots to establish near-instantaneous engagement solutions against multiple airborne targets, particularly in contested or radar-denied environments.
Legion is a passive infrared search-and-track system, meaning aircraft can detect and track airborne targets without relying on active radar emissions. Connecting multiple Legion-equipped aircraft allows their sensor data to be combined, providing more accurate range and positioning information while reducing pilot workload and shortening engagement timelines.
Lockheed Martin is continuing F-16 flight testing and plans further development involving software-defined radios, multi-waveform gateways and manned-unmanned teaming. Legion is already in production for the U.S. Air Force and can operate across F-15 and F-16 platforms, with its open architecture supporting integration into additional fighter and unmanned aircraft.
