ALQ-178

The AN/ALQ-178 (V) is a modular electronic warfare system, developed for the export market for F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft. A minimum system consists of a radar warning receiver with a basic electronic countermeasures suite controller functionality, which will handle, at the least, an electronic warfare expendables dispenser. Active radar jamming is an optional addition. Certain modular capabilities are considered especially sensitive and subject to export controls.

Originally developed for Belgium, the system has increasingly been controversial due to national competition and U.S. export controls. Turkey has been the largest user, but there is strong competition from a domestic product. Pakistan was to receive systems without the Digital Radio Frequency Memory enhancement, with which they do not want it. Nevertheless, Romania has ordered the system, although the features available to this NATO member are not clear.