A laser-based directional infrared countermeasures (DIRCM) system jointly developed by Elbit Systems' Elop subsidiary and Elettronica (hall 1) has begun flight testing and qualification trials, and could be acquired by the Italian air force from next year, says Massimo Annulli, Elettronica's sales director.

The companies agreed in June 2007 to complete the joint development and marketing of the DIRCM system, which is based on Elop's multi-spectral infrared countermeasures (Music) design.

Testing is now being conducted using an experimental platform, and qualification is expected within this year to allow series production deliveries from 2010.

Designed to counter present and future generation man-portable air-defence missiles, the system's small dimensions and 40kg (88lb) weight enable it to be installed on rotary and fixed-wing platforms, from light helicopters up to large transports and commercial passenger aircraft.

The system is composed of three units: a laser generator; an electronic unit which manages the threat engagement based on information from the aircraft's missile approach warning systems; and a jamming turret housing the jamming laser and a high-frame rate thermal camera for target acquisition and tracking.

Annulli says the solution allows an exceptionally high slew speed, which shortens reaction time, while its common optical aperture improves tracking accuracy, reliability and jamming performance.

Elettronica, which is marketing the product as the ELT/572, is eyeing sales to India and Israel. A feasibility study will conclude this month on installing the package on Alenia Aeronautica ATR 72MP maritime patrol aircraft and Piaggio Aero Industries P180 Avanti II special duties platforms for the Italian air force.

The service is also expected to soon initiate a contract to equip its Alenia Aeronautica C-27J tactical transports and Boeing KC-767A tankers. The equipment is also expected to be installed on board the air force's Lockheed Martin C-130J transports and a future combat search and rescue version of the AgustaWestland AW101 helicopter.

Source: Flight Daily News

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