German Super Hercules and government aircraft receive expanded self-protection systems

Koblenz. To improve the protection of aircraft crews, the existing self-protection system of the German C-130J fleet will be supplemented in the future by so-called DIRCM systems. DIRCM stands for “Directed InfraRed Counter Measures” and includes systems for protection against enemy guided missiles with new generation infrared seekers. The seeker head of an approaching guided missile is specifically deflected by transmitted jam codes.

By signing the contract today, the Bundeswehr procurement office commissioned its development and integration to the US prime contractor Lockheed Martin.Further DIRCM systems were also ordered from the main contractor Lufthansa Technik for the three A350 government aircraft. Both projects were previously approved by the Budget Committee of the German Bundestag.

In order to keep the availability and operational readiness of all aircraft as high as possible, the conversion work takes place as part of the planned, regular maintenance intervals.

With the installation of these DIRCM systems in the A350 fleet, the BMVg will in future have access to protected, wide-body, long-haul aircraft for political and parliamentary air transport.

The first C-130J transport aircraft, also known as Super Hercules, is expected to be equipped with such a self-protection system by 2028. The measures should be completed on all German C-130Js by 2032.

Six German Super Hercules are part of a binational tactical air transport squadron based in Evreux, France. In addition to joint tactical air transport across the entire range of logistical tasks, the squadron’s mission portfolio also includes support for special forces operations and rapid response support in global crisis situations.

Source BAAINBw

Unofficial translation by EDR On-Line

Photo courtesy BAAINBw