What's Happening?
Bird Aerosystems has announced the launch of its laser-based directed infrared countermeasure (DIRCM) system, designed for smaller aircraft such as drones and light helicopters. The system, known as µDIRCM, is compact and integrates a solid-state laser emitter and infrared tracker, compatible with any missile warning system. The company has secured initial orders and plans to make the system operational by 2026.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of the µDIRCM system by Bird Aerosystems is a significant advancement in aircraft protection technology, particularly for uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and smaller helicopters. This development addresses the growing demand for enhanced security measures in the aerospace sector, potentially reducing vulnerabilities to missile threats. The system's compact design and compatibility with existing warning systems make it a versatile solution for various platforms.