Bird Aerosystems reports 100% success rate of SPREOS
The SPREOS camera at work during the live-fire demonstration. (Photo: Bird Aerosystems)
Bird Aerosystems announces successful demonstration of its SPREOS DIRCM protection system.
Bird Aerosystems has conducted a live firing demonstration of its Self-protection Radar Electro-optic Sensor (SPREOS) Directional Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM) system against a range of Man-portable Air-defence Systems (MANPADS).
The company set up a complete test range during which a diverse range of MANPADS, including the most advanced available on the market, were shot at a simulated aircraft.
The AMPS detection sensors identified the missiles and alert the MCDU mission computer, which activated the SPREOS DIRCM.
SPREOS conducted threat confirmation and tracking, followed by the deployment of the dual-band countermeasure laser, causing all missiles to miss their target.
The SPREOS DIRCM was active upon a pre-alarm signal, which caused it to activate its semi-active doppler radar to interrogate and confirm the incoming threat, ensuring a zero false-alarm rate.
The doppler radar also provided unique information on the incoming threats such as its radar cross section, distance and velocity.
Few of the system’s customers have been disclosed; however, according to Shephard Defence Insight, the system is in use with Mil Mi-8MTV1 medium-lift utility helicopters equipping the United Nations’ Multi-dimensional Stabilisation Mission in Mali.
The system was unveiled at Eurosatory 2016 and quickly began attracting customers.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Italy moves to procure third batch of 29 AW249 helicopters]()
Italy moves to procure third batch of 29 AW249 helicopters
The €1.22 billion (US$1.41 billion) follow-on order for the additional helicopters will complement the 19 AW249 already ordered by Italy.
-
![October Drone Digest: Growing desire for CCAs and new VTOL technology unveiled]()
October Drone Digest: Growing desire for CCAs and new VTOL technology unveiled
During October 2025, several countries and organisations signalled their intention to acquire loyal wingman uncrewed aircraft systems — designated by the US Air Force as Collaborative Combat Aircraft — or to study the capability further, while various new uncrewed helicopters were showcased.
-
![Australia starts upgrade programme for P-8A Poseidon fleet]()
Australia starts upgrade programme for P-8A Poseidon fleet
The upgrades will work to strengthen the country’s maritime surveillance and anti-submarine capabilities, with one more aircraft due to be delivered by 2026.
-
![Textron firms up potential bid for US Navy Undergraduate trainer contract]()
Textron firms up potential bid for US Navy Undergraduate trainer contract
The company has said it would assemble its Beechcraft M-346N aircraft at its east Wichita campus with significant investment placed to modernise the hub if it wins the contract.
-
![Airbus to position Eurofighter Typhoon for Portugal’s F-16 replacement requirement]()
Airbus to position Eurofighter Typhoon for Portugal’s F-16 replacement requirement
The MoU with AED Cluster Portugal will see the two organisations work together on studies to create a pitch to replace the country’s current F-16 fleet.
