Northrop Grumman Common Infrared Countermeasure systems enters operational testing

Northrop Grumman Corporation's Common Infrared Countermeasure (CIRCM) systems for the US Army has entered Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E).

CIRCM is a lightweight countermeasure system that uses laser energy to defend aircraft against infrared threats. Its modular, open systems architecture allows it to be integrated with systems and sensors to address current and emerging threats.

"Exercising our production systems in operational testing will further validate CIRCM's advanced performance, and is a key enabler on the path to full-rate production and wide deployment of this life-saving system to our warfighters," said Bob Gough, vice president, land and avionics C4ISR, Northrop Grumman.

Northrop Grumman's infrared countermeasures systems have been installed on more than 1,500 aircraft, representing more than 80 different aircraft types, including large and small fixed-wing, rotary wing and tilt-rotor platforms.