Questions over the interoperability of an Israeli-built electronic warfare suite selected by the Greek air force for its new Lockheed Martin F-16C/DBlock 50s and the systems installed on other NATO fighters is delaying a deal between Elisra and Athens.
Despite numerous technical briefings, the USA has not approved installation of the Elisra EW suite on Greece's F-16s, say Israeli sources. Turkey also complained earlier this year that the USA was blocking the integration of a Thales EW suite on its F-16s (Flight International, 3-9 April).
Israeli sources say the interoperability problems have been solved and any further delays in signing a contract may jeopardise the deal as the EW suite is best installed during aircraft assembly, rather than a retrofit to a completed fighter.
In September last year, the Greek defence ministry cancelled a competition to select the EW suite for 50 new F-16s on order. Instead, the ministry asked Hellenic Aerospace Industries to supply a system through co-operation with overseas suppliers. The nominal contract value is in the region of $200 million.
In-service Greek F-16s are equipped with the Northrop Grumman/BAE Systems/Raytheon Advanced Self Protection Integrated Suite (ASPIS). Before the competition was cancelled, Raytheon offered Greece an advanced version of ASPIS. Litton (now Northrop Grumman) and Thales also submitted bids.
The Elisra Advanced Self Protection Suite (ASPS) which will be the basis for the Greek F-16s, uses the company's experience in developing and manufacturing the EW equipment for Israeli air force Boeing F-15Is. Elisra will also supply the EW systems for the F-16Is ordered by Israel last year.
Source: Flight International
