German military, Bundeswehr, acquires autonomous laser weapons from Israel.
In a significant move to bolster the security of its strategic air assets, the German Air Force has awarded a $260 million contract to Israeli defence technology company, Elbit Systems. This six-year deal, amounting to approximately 239 million euros, will see the supply and integration of the company's advanced J-MUSIC Directed Infrared Counter Measures (DIRCM) systems [1][2][4].
The J-MUSIC DIRCM system is a cutting-edge self-defense solution designed to protect aircraft against infrared-guided missile threats, particularly from man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) [1][2][4]. The system harnesses the power of advanced lasers and high-performance thermal imaging sensors to autonomously detect, track, and neutralize incoming missile threats without the need for pilot intervention [1][2][4].
The modular design of the J-MUSIC DIRCM system ensures compatibility with various platforms and warning systems [1][2][4]. This contract marks a significant step in enhancing the survivability of the German A400M aircraft during missions in contested airspace, providing real-time defense against missile attacks [1][2][4].
Elbit's DIRCM solutions are already in use globally by various air forces, demonstrating their operational reliability and technological maturity [1][3]. The customer for these systems is the defense division of Airbus, based in Bremen [5].
The J-MUSIC DIRCM system operates by optically tracking missiles using a rotating mirror mechanism and directing laser beams at the infrared seeker head of the missile [3]. This contract underscores Elbit Systems’ leading position in airborne DIRCM solutions and supports Germany in its efforts to protect its strategic air assets during critical missions [1][2][4].
It is worth noting that these infrared-guided missiles have been found in more than two dozen countries, including in the hands of non-state actors [6]. This contract is a testament to Germany's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its military operations.
The Budget Committee of the German Bundestag approved funding for the Elbit contract on June 4 [7]. The delivery and integration of the systems will take place over the six-year period outlined in the contract [1][2][4].
References:
- Elbit Systems Secures $260 Million Contract to Supply DIRCM Systems for German A400M Aircraft
- Elbit Systems Wins $260 Million Contract to Supply DIRCM Systems for German A400M Aircraft
- Elbit Systems' J-MUSIC DIRCM System to Protect German A400M Fleet
- Elbit Systems Wins Contract to Supply DIRCM Systems for German A400M Aircraft
- Airbus Defence and Space to Supply Elbit Systems' DIRCM Systems for German A400M Aircraft
- MANPADS Missiles: A Global Threat
- Bundestag Approves Funding for Elbit Systems Contract
The J-MUSIC DIRCM system, a cutting-edge self-defense solution from Elbit Systems, will be integrated onto the German A400M aircraft to protect it against infrared-guided missile threats, particularly from man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS). This contract with the defense division of Airbus, based in Bremen, further cements Elbit Systems’ leading position in airborne DIRCM solutions and supports Germany in its efforts to secure its strategic air assets during critical missions.
