Airbus has signed a major contract with the German Armed Forces Procurement Agency to equip 23 A400M military transport aircraft in the German Army inventory with advanced DIRCM (Directed Infrared Countermeasure) systems. This move will significantly increase operational safety by increasing the aircraft’s ability to protect against infrared-guided missiles.
Integration with Israeli-sourced Technology
DIRCM systems, an Israeli-based defense technology company Elbit Systems These systems will be integrated into the A400Ms during the aircraft’s scheduled maintenance periods at Airbus’ facilities in Manching, Germany and Getafe and Seville, Spain. The collaboration is an example of international defence industry partnerships and the integration of technological capabilities from different countries.
Head of Airbus A400M Programme Gerd Weber, in his statement on the subject, said, “The A400M undertakes many missions, from carrying personnel, ammunition and humanitarian aid to air refueling and casualty evacuation. DIRCM systems will provide additional protection for the crew in their missions around the world.” These words underline that the versatile operational capabilities of the A400M will become even safer with the new DIRCM systems.
System testing is currently ongoing in Spain and certification is expected to be completed in the summer of 2025. Installations are planned to be completed by 2032, meaning the project will require a comprehensive and long-term integration process.
How Does DIRCM Work?
DIRCM systems are advanced technology defense systems developed to detect infrared guided missiles aimed at aircraft, optically confuse them and change their direction. The working principle includes the following steps:
- Missile Detection: High-sensitivity sensors (usually UV or IR sensors) on the aircraft quickly detect an approaching missile.
- Monitoring and Targeting: The DIRCM system analyses the detected missile within seconds and determines its exact location. This allows the missile to precisely track its course and distance to its target.
- Laser Countermeasure: Infrared guided missiles navigate by monitoring the temperature of the target. The DIRCM system sends jamming signals to these sensors with high-powered infrared laser beams. These signals “fool” the missile’s guidance system, causing it to deviate from its course and move away from the target.
Threats Blocked by DIRCM and Its Advantages
DIRCM systems, especially Manpads (Portable Air Defense Systems) It offers an effective solution against serious threats from infrared guided missiles such as . While traditional “flare” systems may be insufficient to surprise some new generation missiles, DIRCM provides a more sensitive, effective and reusable defense. This is especially vital for aircraft operating in high threat areas.
Which Aircraft Use DIRCM?
DIRCM systems offer a wide range of protection by being used on different types of aircraft:
- Military Transport Aircraft: Strategic transport aircraft such as the A400M are primarily protected by such systems as they carry personnel and critical equipment.
- VIP Jets: VIP jets used by heads of state or high-ranking officials are equipped with DIRCM systems to provide maximum security against possible threats.
- Helicopters: DIRCM is an indispensable defense system for helicopters flying at low altitudes and more vulnerable to manpad threats.
- Some Civil Aircraft: Some civil aircraft operating in high-risk areas or used in special operations may also prefer DIRCM systems to increase their security.
The reinforcement of the German A400M fleet with DIRCM systems is seen as a demonstration of the country’s commitment to modernize its defense capabilities and increase operational security. This integration will reinforce the strategic importance of the A400M and enable crews to operate more safely in demanding missions around the world.
