Test pilots are testing the F-16’s next generation software package in a realistic combat environment during Exercise Northern Edge at Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, officials announced. F-16s from Eglin AFB, Fla., will fly with the fighter’s developmental M7 Operational Flight Program software during the two-week exercise this month. “Until now, the OFP has been in a limited and controlled environment,” flight test engineer 1st Lt. John Vidoni said in a release. “This allows us to test very specific requirements, and dig deep into the software … in an environment where it will eventually be deployed,” he added. Northern Edge will subject the software to realistic combat jamming, surface-to-air threats, enemy aircraft, and joint operations, offering “countless ways to push the limits of the M7 system,” said Lt. Col. Tim Stevens, 40th Flight Test Squadron commander from Eglin. Testers from both Eglin and Edwards AFB, Calif., are deploying for the exercise June 15-26.
Members of the House Armed Services Committee say the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile program has been set back three months due to the ongoing government shutdown. The comment is noteworthy because the JATM's status has been kept tightly under wraps.
