Germany launches BriteCloud from target drone
BriteCloud-218 decoy is ejected from a remotely piloted air target system for the first time.
The German Armed Forces successfully conducted the first live launch of a BriteCloud-218 decoy in a recent trial, manufacturer Leonardo announced on 17 February.
BriteCloud-218 rounds were ejected from an Airbus remotely piloted air target system (RPATS) test platform.
‘The trial proved the ability of Leonardo’s flare-sized electronic device to outwit missiles equipped with Semi-Active Radar (SAR) seeker technology,’ the company added.
Shephard Defence Insight describes BriteCloud as a ‘last ditch’ defence for a fighter to lure an incoming missile away from the targeted aircraft where it will explode harmlessly.
Launched from a standard countermeasure dispenser, the flare-sized BriteCloud electronic device transmits powerful radio emissions that simulate a target, drawing missile threats away from the aircraft.
Germany is the first country to trial BriteCloud as a protection capability for RPATS aircraft, also known as target drones.
In the US, the Air National Guard is leading Foreign Comparative Testing trials of BriteCloud to confirm its suitability for the countermeasure dispensers on F-16 aircraft.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![US approves additional $39 million JASSM-ER order for JASDF’s aircraft]()
US approves additional $39 million JASSM-ER order for JASDF’s aircraft
The contract for these additional missiles to equip its F-15J, F-35A and F-35B fighter jets follows its earlier request for 50 missiles in March 2024.
-
![Philippines grows its S-70i fleet with 10 new deliveries]()
Philippines grows its S-70i fleet with 10 new deliveries
The 10 helicopters delivered throughout 2024 make up part of a larger contract for 32 Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopters for the country.
-
![Airbus delivers two H225M Caracals to France]()
Airbus delivers two H225M Caracals to France
The Airbus rotorcraft will replace the French Air Force’s Puma helicopters, following the initial contract signing in 2021.
-
![Lithuania to send an extra 4,500 drones to Ukraine despite delivery delays]()
Lithuania to send an extra 4,500 drones to Ukraine despite delivery delays
According to local media sources, thousands of drones destined for Ukraine are currently stuck in warehouses due to bureaucratic delays.
-
![How Chinese advancements will impact the future development of the US Air Force fleet]()
How Chinese advancements will impact the future development of the US Air Force fleet
US Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall has said that China would continue to be a “problem” for the development of the service’s fleet over the coming decades.
-
![Royal Thai Air Forces’ bid for Saab’s Gripens backed by defence minister]()
Royal Thai Air Forces’ bid for Saab’s Gripens backed by defence minister
The Thai government minister expressed confidence in the aircraft type, noting that a decision on the selection process between the Gripen and F-16 would be “made soon”.
