IR Missile-Jamming System Tested on Military Transport Plane

A defensive laser and imaging system from Elbit Systems Ltd. was successfully implemented on an Airbus C295 military transport plane, jamming IR, ground-to-air, heat-seeking man-portable missiles (MANPADS) during a test flight.

Elbit's MUSIC series of directed IR countermeasure (DIRCM) systems was integrated with an IR missile warning system able to detect, acquire, track and jam trial test equipment on the ground during extreme conditions.

Thermal image of the Airbus C295 viewed from the ground station. Courtesy of Elbit Systems.

The countermeasure systems integrate advanced fiber laser technology with a high-rate thermal tracking camera and a small, highly dynamic mirror turret to protect all types of aircraft in operational conditions.

The demonstration took place in October at a NATO facility in Meppen, Germany. It was a joint project of Elbit Systems and Airbus Defence and Space of Spain. It was supported by the Israeli Ministry of Defense, the Spanish air force and the NATO Air Forces Armaments Group.

Elbit provides high technology to defense, homeland security and commercial programs throughout the world. The company is under contract to supply more than 110 DIRCM systems to more than 10 customers for installation on 20 fixed- and rotary-wing platform types.