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Robert Wall
September 04, 2025
Credit: Bird Aerosystems
Bird Aerosystems says it has secured a first batch of orders to bring a laser-based directed infrared countermeasures self-protection system to smaller aircraft such as drones or light helicopters.
The µDIRCM is built around a single line replaceable unit that weighs less than 7 kg (15.4 lbs), the Israeli company said Sept. 4. It includes a solid-state laser emitter and infrared tracker and should work with any missile warning system, the company added.
“We are proud to share that the µDIRCM™ already has been selected by global customers and will become operational during 2026,” Co-CEO Ronen Factor said in a statement.
The company already provides infrared countermeasures for other platforms, including larger helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. Demand for protection options to safeguard UAS and smaller helicopters are rising, though, according to Bird’s vice president of sales, Matan Perry. The company indicated it is targeting users of platforms such as the Airbus H145 for its new system.
