BIRD Aerosystems has announced that it signed a contract with the Israeli Ministry of Defense (DDR&D) for the development, installation and testing of its Airborne Missile Protection System (AMPS), including its recently developed µDIRCM solution on the Israeli Air Force’s Apache helicopter.
Under the agreement, BIRD will develop, integrate, deliver and test its AMPS solution, incorporating its compact and advanced Directed Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM), ensuring protection of IAF’s Apache helicopter against modern ground-to-air threats.
The system is developed in collaboration with the DDR&D of the Israeli Ministry of Defense and developed based on BIRD’s fully operationally proven SPREOS DIRCM technologies.
The µDIRCM™ is a fully autonomous single-LRU solution weighing less than 7kg. It incorporates an advanced infrared tracker, combined with high-power all solid-state laser emitters to deliver high-precision jamming and its dual-band IR confirmation mechanism reduces false alarms.
According to a press release by the company, BIRD’s patented µDIRCM is the “world’s lightest, smallest and most advanced” multi-functional solution, combining missile detection, confirmation, tracking, and laser jamming within a single unit. It achieves near-zero false alarms and offers unmatched capabilities in threat engagement.
Tailored to meet the growing demand for lightweight defence systems, the µDIRCM™ enables unique and comprehensive airborne missile defense even for small platforms, UAV’s and light helicopters such as the Airbus H145. And with its small size, weight and cost, its turret configuration can be integrated on combat helicopters such as the AH64 Apache.
A heat-seeking missile locks onto and tracks an aircraft by detecting its heat signature, typically emitted from the aircraft's engine. DIRCM systems employ an advanced electro-optic turret and laser technology to disrupt or jam the missile's tracking ability by optically breaking its lock on the target. This interference aims to prevent the missile from maintaining its course toward the aircraft-thereby protecting everyone on board.
“This is a major milestone for BIRD Aerosystems,” said Matan Perry, VP Marketing & Sales at BIRD Aerosystems. “We are proud that the Israeli Air Force - one of the most advanced air forces in the world - has chosen our newest DIRCM to protect its AH-64. Our solution combines cutting-edge technology in the world’s most compact and lightweight DIRCM system, delivering unmatched protection facing today’s threats. We witness an increasing worldwide demand for self-protection systems, even for small platforms.”
Ronen Factor, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of BIRD Aerosystems, stated: “It is a great personal and professional privilege for my Co-CEO- Mr. David Dragucki and me to lead the company now selected to equip Israeli Air Force’s AH-64A with the most advanced airborne protection systems available today. This strategic program, in partnership with the Ministry of Defense and DDR&D, reflects both our deep commitment to national defense and our proven capabilities in delivering mission-critical technologies that meet the most demanding operational needs."