BIRD Aerosystems Unveils the µDIRCM™: Advanced Airborne Defense Technology
Introduction of Breakthrough Technology
On September 4, 2025, BIRD Aerosystems, a leading innovator in airborne defense solutions, announced the launch of its newest advancement: the µDIRCM™. Marketed as the most compact, lightweight, and economical Directional Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) system available, this latest offering is built upon the well-established technologies of BIRD’s SPREOS DIRCM system.
Meeting Evolving Defense Needs
Recognizing the increasing necessity for lightweight defense mechanisms, the µDIRCM™ presents a unique capability for comprehensive airborne missile defense. This system is particularly suited for integration with smaller platforms such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and light helicopters, including the Airbus H145.
- Key Features:
- Dual Unit Configuration: The turret design is optimized for wingtip installation on combat helicopters, notably the AH-64 Apache, providing extensive hemispheric coverage.
- Weight and Portability: Weighing in at under 7 kg, the µDIRCM™ is designed for easy integration without compromising operational capability.
Enhanced Protection Capabilities
This fully autonomous, single-Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) system offers exceptional defenses against Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS) and emerging threats.
- Advanced Technology:
- An integrated infrared tracking system paired with high-power, all-solid-state laser emitters facilitates high-precision jamming efforts.
- The dual-band infrared confirmation mechanism significantly reduces false alarm rates, a hallmark of BIRD’s DIRCM lineage.
Seamless Integration and Compliance
The µDIRCM™ is engineered for effortless compatibility with existing missile warning systems (MWS), ensuring maximum operational coverage. Moreover, it adheres to stringent military and civil aviation regulations, reinforcing its suitability for diverse applications.
Corporate Insights
Matan Perry, Chief Marketing Officer and Vice President of Sales at BIRD Aerosystems, noted that the µDIRCM’s compact size, minimal weight, and cost efficiency revolutionize protection for smaller helicopters and UAVs—platforms that traditionally could not accommodate heavier DIRCM solutions. He emphasized the rising demand for self-protection systems in these sectors, highlighting that the µDIRCM™ rounds out BIRD’s product range from small platforms to large Very Very Important Person (VVIP) aircraft.
Co-CEO and Founder Ronen Factor remarked on the significance of this launch for the company. “We have leveraged our combat-proven DIRCM expertise to create the smallest and most effective self-defense solution available today,” he stated. Factor also revealed that the µDIRCM™ has already garnered interest from international clients and is anticipated to enter operational service in 2026.
Conclusion
The introduction of the µDIRCM™ signifies a pivotal advancement in the realm of airborne defense solutions. With its cutting-edge technology and adaptability, it sets a new benchmark in self-protection capabilities for a variety of aerial platforms—reinforcing BIRD Aerosystems’ commitment to enhancing defense readiness in an increasingly complex threat environment.
Image Source: BIRD Aerosystems
