Elbit Systems Ltd. has been awarded a $260 milion contract by Airbus Defence and Space. Elbit will deliver its J-MUSIC™ Directed Infrared Counter Measures (DIRCM). Theses systems will be integrated on the German Airforce’s Airbus A400M transport aircraft. The six-year contract follows a decision by Germany’s Federal Office for Equipment and BAAINBw.
The J-MUSIC DIRCM solution is a member of Elbit’s MUSIC™ family of airborne self-protection technologies. It is engineered to safeguard aircraft from infrared-guided missile threats. These threats include those originating from man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS). The system uses advanced laser-based countermeasure technology paired with high-performance imaging. It can detect, track, and neutralize threats autonomously. The system requires almost no manual intervention from the flight crew.
Advanced Protection with Minimal Impact
Key features of the J-MUSIC system include its modular design, scalability, and compact structure. The design features enable its seamless integration with a variety of aircraft platforms. Its lightweight profile ensures minimal impact on the aircraft’s performance. Therefore, the aircraft’s payload capacity and operational flexibility remains preserved.
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Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis is the President and CEO of Elbit Systems. He emphasized the strategic importance of the agreement. “This contract strengthens Elbit Systems’ position as a leading provider of DIRCM solutions. Our systems are already trusted by numerous air forces around the world. We are proud to support Germany in protecting their strategic air assets. Our successful collaboration with Airbus DS on this important program is highly valued.
Global Footprint of DIRCM Technology
Elbit’s DIRCM solutions have been operationally deployed across military aircraft worldwide. Clients include the air forces of Germany, Netherlands, Italy, and Brazil. In addition, leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have adopted the system aswell. The system is in-demand both for new platforms and retrofit programs.
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Automated defense against heat-seeking missiles is becoming relevant in today’s technological landscape. This contract is one of the indicators of the growing demand of electronic warfare technologies. NATO member states are increasingly demanding active survivability technologies to ensure mission success.
Javeria Sajid is an Aerospace Engineering student from NUST with a background in technology and a sharp focus on the global political landscape and defence innovation. She writes to make complex defence technologies understandable, and aspires to bridge journalism, policy, and engineering in her work.
