Hanwha Systems Achieves Localization of Advanced Aircraft Defense System

Directional Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) product shape image developed by Hanwha Systems. / Provided by Hanwha Systems

[Asia Economy Yang Nak-gyu, Military Specialist Reporter] Hanwha Systems announced on the 13th that it has completed the 'Directional Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) Operational Test and Evaluation' led by the Agency for Defense Development (ADD).

DIRCM is equipment designed to counter the threat of enemy man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) targeting friendly aircraft. Mounted on aircraft, it detects incoming missile threat signals and fires a high-power infrared laser (deceptive light source) to disrupt the missile, serving as an advanced defense system.

Image of the 'Directional Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM)' product developed by Hanwha Systems under the supervision of the Agency for Defense Development. / Provided by Hanwha Systems

Image of the 'Directional Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM)' product developed by Hanwha Systems under the supervision of the Agency for Defense Development. / Provided by Hanwha Systems

Hanwha Systems completed the initial operational test and evaluation by applying the DIRCM prototype to actual weapon systems in collaboration with ADD, verifying the operational performance and suitability required by the military. According to the company, this establishes proof of performance that enables the supply of DIRCM domestically as well as overseas.

According to Hanwha Systems, DIRCM had previously been introduced only through overseas procurement projects. However, now the domestically developed DIRCM technology can be applied to various aircraft operated by the Korean military, including the Korean Utility Helicopter (KUH, Surion), Medium Utility Helicopter (UH-60, Black Hawk), Presidential Helicopter (VH-92), and transport aircraft C-130.

Hanwha Systems expects to enable the deployment of DIRCM across platforms ranging from helicopters to large aircraft by securing additional deceptive light source technology that allows for high power, miniaturization, and weight reduction through its own investment. Hanwha Systems has participated as a prototype developer in the DIRCM test development led by the Agency for Defense Development since 2014 and succeeded in development in 2018.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.