Tact Air Dir Infrared CM (TADIRCM)

The projects in this element advance the processor, laser, and sensor development of the AN/AAQ-45 DAIRCM system in order to outpace current/future threats in addition to adding growth for future capabilities. These modifications significantly increase aircraft survivability of Department of Navy (DoN) assault aircraft in complex terrain for worldwide deployment. The DAIRCM system consists of three major components: missile warning sensors, processor, and inexhaustible laser countermeasures. DAIRCM interfaces with the platform aircraft and provides signals to onboard Aircraft Survival Equipment. Within the DoN, UH-1Y is the lead platform for the DAIRCM Program. The DAIRCM program advances lessons learned from the Joint Urgent Operational Needs Statement (JUONs) to incorporate the system under glass in the H-1; improves laser power; increases processing to allow for additional sensors to meet platform/mission needs; improves sensor countermeasure features; improves effectiveness for flare deployment; and further develops cyber security. The DAIRCM design is scalable to expedite expansion to other platforms and improve crew threat situational awareness. The program also advances modeling and simulation for new countermeasures and develops necessary test equipment for program success. FY2027 RDT&E funding is required to continue development and test of the DAIRCM system. The program will continue development of Government tracking software, testing of under glass solutions and complete Operational Testing (OT) on the lead platform (UH-1Y). The program will also record, prioritize and correct deficiencies found during test. DAIRCM will continue studies and evaluations of current and future aircraft threats, modeling and simulation for improved countermeasure capabilities, development, testing, and test equipment to address new and emerging threats.