Diehl, Elbit To Co-develop Protection System For Bundeswehr’s A400M Aircraft

Diehl Defence and Elbit Systems have signed a cooperation agreement at the ILA Berlin Air Show for the development of a DIRCM self-protection system for the Bundeswehr’s Airbus A400M transport aircraft.

Diehl was tasked by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) with the risk reduction study “DIRCM (Directed Infrared Countermeasure) for the A400M”, which will be concluded this year. Diehl combined three system units of the Israeli manufacturer’s J-MUSIC (Multi-Spectral Infrared Countermeasure) into a multi-turret system followed by comprehensive tests. The system ensures complete 360° protection of the Airbus A400M against infrared-guided missiles.

Elbit has already delivered laser-based self-protection systems for aircraft of several customers. Cooperation between Diehl and Elbit offers the Bundeswehr a short-term realization of protection systems not only for the Airbus A400M, but for the Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker and the P3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft.

Moreover, both companies are extending their cooperation in the MUSIC family to the compact Mini-MUSIC system, equipped with four IR sensors and a high-frequency laser, to target the market for combat- and military transport helicopters.