Swedish manufacturer uses programme to claim role in wider EU plans
SaabTech has revealed a prototype chaff and flare dispenser intended for use in protecting commercial aircraft from infrared guided missiles. The company is also exploring potential development of a low-cost directed infrared countermeasures (DIRCM) system.
The prototype BOA chaff and flare dispenser was developed in the first half of 2004, with SaabTech using the programme to stake a technological claim for involvement in wider European Union plans for a common civil airliner self-protection architecture.
The basic system is an adaptation of SaabTech's BOL military aircraft chaff and flare dispenser, but with the dispensing face modified to allow sideways launch of standard- sized expendables.
SaabTech says the sideways ejection system is necessitated by the restrictive space in commercial airliner engine pylons. The company suggests that two dispensers should be fitted to each engine pylon to provide full hemispheric coverage against Manpads infrared guided weapons.
SaabTech is also exploring development of an alternate magazine to allow fitting of larger expendables to combat newer-generation missiles fitted with advanced imaging seeker-heads.
According to SaabTech president Bjorn Erman, preliminary studies are under way within the company to assess the potential market for DIRCM systems, with emphasis on development of a niche product.
Erman acknowledges that while there is extensive interest among airlines in DIRCM capability, it is still a fledgling market.
He says the studies are aimed at qualifying the timeframes surrounding the likely development of a civil market for electronic-warfare self-protection systems and deciding whether the company should first focus on a military variant if it proceeds with development.
The high cost of developing such a system means "timing is essential" Erman says, with a preliminary market of at least 100 systems required to justify financial investment in development. He also says that final decisions on whether to proceed are likely within 12 months.
BAE Systems and Northrop Grumman-led teams were selected by the US Department of Homeland Security last month to flight test military-derived DIRCM systems for airliners (Flight International, 31 August-6 September).
PETER LA FRANCHI / LINKÖPING
Source: Flight International
