Aircraft

Laser missile jammmers to protect Marine Corps helicopters in Iraq

US Marine Corps helicopters in Iraq are to be equipped with laser jammers to defeat shoulder-launched missile attacks after a series of shoot-downs by insurgents.

Northrop Grumman has been awarded a $10.8 million contract to design and proof a kit to equip first Sikorsky CH-53s then Boeing CH-46s, and potentially Bell Boeing MV-22 tiltrotors, with directed infrared countermeasures comprising two-colour missile warning systems (MWS) and dual laser jam heads. The work is to be completed in 12 months.

Northrop says the US Marine Corps selected its third-generation infrared MWS and laser DIRCM over advanced flares and ultraviolet missile warners for urgent installation on its helicopters in Iraq.

A DIRCM works by detecting and tracking the incoming missile and directing a modulated laser beam at its infrared seeker to confuse the guidance system, causing the missile to veer off course.

"This is the first operational installation of third-generation equipment, including the Guardian laser-only mini pointer/tracker," says Jack Pledger, IRCM business development director.

Northrop is working with Terma on a podded version of its Guardian DIRCM for installation on Dutch Boeing AH-64D Apaches, and Pledger says the system is now considered for Boeing CH-47F Chinook transport helicopters on order for the Netherlands.

Related links:

• MV-22 Osprey prepares for Iraq combat debut