MADRID, ($1=0.88 Euros) – Spain will upgrade its Chinook F helicopters, BulgarianMilitary.com has learned, citing a signed agreement between Indra and Spain’s defense ministry. The helicopters will receive several updates, but the most important is the integration of infrared sensors for protection against short-range surface-to-air missiles such as MANPADS.
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The InShield Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM) system protects against infrared-guided missiles by emitting a beam that deflects the missile. InShield can be integrated with two ways, as it is autonomous with open infrastructure, which means that in addition to being a separate component of aircraft equipment, it can also be integrated as part of an existing electronic warfare system.
The system has a jamming laser tower and a central processor controlling a multispectral laser with optimized response time. The system has optimized weight and size. This update is important for the Spanish Air Force, as they continue to perform combat missions or security missions under the auspices of NATO, and InShield is an appropriate tool to deal with enemy Manpads – eastern or western production.
Along with the InShield Infrared Countermeasures system, the Spanish Chinook F will also receive the InWarner sensor, also manufactured by Indra. This sensor integrates a missile signal and a laser signal that detects whether the pointer has set a target for the helicopter. The integration of the two elements allows full awareness of the situation and increases efficiency when it comes to activating countermeasures to neutralize the attack.
Last but not least, the Spanish Ministry of Defense will purchase and integrate the ALR-400FD radar warning system, also from the Spanish manufacturer. This system is needed to enable Chinook crew to identify and respond to enemy missile platforms on time.
The entire update will cost Spanish taxpayers 35 million euros. However, it will allow Spanish Chinook helicopters to land in more confined spaces as well as in conflict zones.
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