Indra, Elettronica developing EuroDIRQM
Indra has partnered with Elettronica Group to develop a next generation Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL)-based Direct Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) system for rotary and fixed wing aircraft, the company announced on 6 June.
The system, called EuroDIRQM, currently exists as a prototype system, with QCL operational ground tests successfully carried out in March 2018 in cooperation with the Italian Air Force.
Designed for multi-platform and multi-mission purposes, the EuroDIRQM will provide self-protection capabilities to all kind of aircraft, including helicopters, transport/tankers and jet aircraft.
QCL technology is more advanced than conventional semiconductor lasers; QCL energy is generated directly in the band of interest, optimising power consumption at the same time as output beam.
DIRCM systems protect aircraft from MANPADS missile attacks.The system detects the incoming threat during the missile launch and counters the missile guidance using a directed laser beam that deviates the trajectory of the missile.
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