Lockheed Martin tests Legion IRST pod-to-pod data link on F-16s

• Lockheed Martin completed a flight test of its Legion infrared search-and-track pod using a dedicated pod-to-pod data link.
• Two F-16s connected their pods via L3Harris’ pre-production HiveLink, improving target track accuracy through shared sensor data.
• Capability aims to deliver near-instantaneous range solutions on multiple airborne targets in radar-denied, contested environments.
• Program is under Air National Guard contract, with ongoing F-16 testing focused on performance, interoperability, transportability.
• Legion is fielded for the U.S. Air Force in a podded form, supporting cross-platform use on F-15 and F-16 aircraft.

Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. Lockheed Martin Corporation published the original content used to generate this news brief on September 16, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.