Israel-based BIRD Aerosystems has completed the delivery and installation of its Advanced Airborne Missile Protection System (AMPS) for an undisclosed African nation’s air force. The systems have been fitted on Mi-17 transport helicopters and Mi-24 attack helicopters to protect them from surface-to-air missile threats. The AMPS integrates several of BIRD’s proprietary defense technologies, including the Self-Protection Radar Electro-Optic System (SPREOS) and the μEYE missile warning sensor. These components work together to detect, identify, and counter incoming missiles with precision and reliability. The μEYE sensor uses electro-optical technology to quickly spot missile launches, while SPREOS employs radar confirmation and directional infrared countermeasures to verify and neutralize the threat. Once a missile is confirmed, the SPREOS system tracks its movement and fires a dual-band laser to jam the seeker, ensuring it loses lock on the aircraft. This dual-step process minimizes false alarms and guarantees accurate countermeasure deployment, significantly improving aircraft survivability. The system can also evaluate whether the countermeasure was successful in real time, providing immediate feedback to pilots. BIRD Aerosystems stated that this delivery enhances the safety of helicopter crews operating in high-threat environments, particularly where portable missile systems are common. The company emphasized that AMPS offers comprehensive protection without overloading aircraft weight or power systems. This contract expands BIRD’s presence in Africa and underscores the growing demand for effective airborne defense against modern infrared-guided missiles.
