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BAE SYSTEMS missile warning system demonstrates ability to defend tactical aircraft

11 Apr 2002

BAE Systems Common Missile Warning System (CMWS) has demonstrated, in a series of rigorous "live-fire" tests, that it can successfully help defend tactical fighters against infrared missile threats. The system - which detects the signature of a launched missile, warns the aircrew and cues countermeasures to defeat the threat missile - was tested aboard a U. S. Air Force QF-4 drone in flights at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, March 11-13, 2002.

Configured similarly to the way it might operate on an F-16 tactical fighter, the sensor suite was flown against a total of eight man-portable air defence (MANPAD) surface-to-air missiles. The missiles were launched at the QF-4 from various distances and angles. Initial reports indicate that the CMWS performed successfully in every test.

The tests mark the first live missile firings against an advanced production missile warning system on a tactical aircraft. Paul Schoeck, a BAE Systems test engineer supporting the U.S. Government White Sands Missile Range tests, said, "These tests successfully demonstrate CMWS' performance against the Air Force's flight test requirements, and clear the way for tactical aircraft integration applications."

CMWS is designed for various fixed and rotary wing aircraft. CMWS is the missile warning portion of the Advanced Threat Infrared Countermeasure (ATIRCM) system. ATIRCM has completed Engineering and Manufacturing Development and is transitioning into production for various U.S. aircraft.

The CMWS, combined with the Advanced Threat Infrared Countermeasures (ATIRCM) system, is part of the U.S. Army's Suite of Integrated Infrared Countermeasures (SIIRCM). ATIRCM/CMWS, developed at BAE Systems Information & Electronic Warfare Systems in Nashua, New Hampshire, provides the military's next-generation directable, laser-based countermeasures system to protect aircraft against heat-seeking missile threats.

The CMWS - designated as the AN/AAR-57 - is a passive missile detection and warning system. It consists of up to six electro-optic missile sensors, depending on aircraft type, and an Electronic Control Unit (ECU). The sensors are installed around the aircraft to provide comprehensive coverage, and constantly monitor for the signature of a missile. The ECU processes the sensor data and, if it detects an incoming missile, provides cues to the ATIRCM or other defensive equipment to engage in countermeasures to defeat the threat missile.

In a separate announcement, the U.S. Army on March 29 also awarded BAE Systems Information and Electronic Warfare Systems (IEWS) a $12.7 million contract for production of 26 CMWS sets. Work will be performed in Nashua, New Hampshire, and is to be completed by September 30, 2003.

About BAE SYSTEMS:

BAE Systems is a global systems company, innovating for a safer world. BAE Systems employs some 120,000 people and has annual sales of around 13 billion. The company offers a global capability in air, sea, land and space with a world-class prime contracting ability supported by a range of key skills. BAE Systems designs, manufactures and supports military aircraft, surface ships, submarines, space systems, radar, avionics, communications, electronics, guided weapon systems and a range of other defence products. BAE Systems is dedicated to making the intelligent connections needed to deliver innovative solutions.

BAE Systems North America is a high-technology U.S. company employing more than 22,000 Americans who live and work in 30 States and Washington, D.C. - dedicated to solving our customers needs with both highly innovative and leading-edge solutions across the defence electronics, systems, information technology and services arenas.

BAE Systems Information & Electronic Warfare Systems employs 4,600 people at eight major facilities in five states. The business unit is a major producer of aircraft self-protection systems and tactical surveillance and intelligence systems for all branches of the armed forces. Other major business areas include microwave, mission and space electronics; infrared imaging; and automated mission planning systems.