Boeing and Elbit Systems signed a memorandum of understanding to offer Elbit’s directed infrared counter measure (DIRCM) system for international customers of Boeing fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft.

The DIRCM system is produced by Elbit’s wholly owned electro-optics subsidiary, Elop. It will offer a self-protection package that would not be subject to U.S. export controls. Elbit Elop produces the multi-spectral infrared countermeasure (Music) system for the protection of helicopters and small and medium fixed-wing turboprops; and J-Music, a distributed system of DIRCM turrets for large aircraft. A Music brochure features photographs of the Boeing Apache, Chinook and 707 as well as the Sikorsky Black Hawk and Lockheed Martin C-130.

Boeing said its network and space systems and military aircraft organizations are working together to integrate the Israeli systems on new and existing aircraft, as well as to provide infrared signature analysis and support. While an illustration supplied by Elbit depicts the Apache, Sea Knight and C-17 Globemaster III, Boeing declined to specify which aircraft will have the protection system integrated.

“This capability will be offered on a wide variety of Boeing military fixed-wing and vertical-lift aircraft, depending on individual customer needs,” the company said in response to an AIN query. “Depending on the aircraft type and the customer requirement, integration and test will be completed within a typical delivery schedule for a new aircraft order or can be done as a post-delivery modification.”

Northrop Grumman supplies the infrared countermeasures systems that are fitted to many military platforms, including Boeing AH-64 Apaches and C-17 airlifters. Last year, the U.S. Army awarded technical demonstration contracts to Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems for its CIRCM (common infrared countermeasures) program to develop a lightweight, laser-based countermeasures system for helicopters and light fixed-wing aircraft. In January, Northrop Grumman said it had delivered the first of eight CIRCM systems to the Army two months ahead of schedule.