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
-
![Saab partners with Helsing to get AI on Gripen E aircraft]()
Saab partners with Helsing to get AI on Gripen E aircraft
Titled ‘Project Beyond’ the AI systems provided by the partnership will work to enhance the Gripen E fighter’s capabilities, automating other tasks and allowing fighter pilots to focus on accomplishing their missions.
-
![“We need GCAP” to face evolving threats says RAF chief]()
“We need GCAP” to face evolving threats says RAF chief
The UK Royal Air Force’s (RAF’s) chief of the air staff discussed the current state of the RAF and its need to be “match fit” for a changing warfare threat.
-
![UAE receives first additional A330 MRTT]()
UAE receives first additional A330 MRTT
The arrival of this aircraft boosts the UAE’s fleet of tankers up to four, following its order for an additional two aircraft in 2021.
-
![Gray Eagle UAS makes first ship-to-shore journey]()
Gray Eagle UAS makes first ship-to-shore journey
The Gray Eagle short take-off and landing (STOL) UAS has a different engine, wings, control surfaces and landing gear to earlier Gray Eagles, and is a production variant of the demonstrator Mojave UAS.
-
![Collins Aerospace wins $19 million contract to upgrade RAF CH-47 Chinooks]()
Collins Aerospace wins $19 million contract to upgrade RAF CH-47 Chinooks
The Chinook cockpit upgrade will enhance the UK RAF’s Chinooks’ collaboration with the US and improve operational effectiveness and safety, Collins have claimed.
