CIRCM - Common Infrared Countermeasures

soldiers conducting conduct sling load operations from helicopter

5th Generation IRCM Technology for Unparalleled Warfighter Protection

Our Common Infrared Countermeasures (CIRCM) solution is a lightweight, highly reliable infrared countermeasure system that is compatible with rotary wing, tiltrotor and small fixed wing aircraft. Within two years of commencing full-rate production, CIRCM has delivered its 500th shipset and achieved over 30,000 operational flight hours across the AH-64, CH-47 and UH-60.

CIRCM utilizes the most advanced laser and pointing technology to protect warfighters against advanced infrared missiles – thus enabling mission success. This affordable solution interfaces with existing aircraft survivability equipment and uses open architecture to support future growth.

Download CIRCM - Datasheet

Always On, Mostly Unseen and Globally Proven

It takes CIRCM mere seconds to lock onto the missile and generate pulses that confuse the missile, automatically steering it off course.

The Low-Risk Approach to High-Level Protection

The system architecture is designed to defeat modern infrared anti-aircraft missiles while conforming to the challenging size, weight, and power restrictions of smaller airframes.

Benefits, Listed by Feature:

Pointer/Tracker

Low cost
High reliability
Lightweight and suitable for light helicopters
Minimal air-stream intrusion
Modular design
Configured for capability enhancements and spiral upgrades

Quantum Cascade Laser

Fast, simultaneous break-lock jamming
Power to defeat future threats
Reliable solid-state sources
All-weather, all-altitude operation
Field replaceable
Dual production facilities

Loading component...

Most Experienced Team in Laser IRCM

Northrop Grumman is a leading innovator in laser directional infrared countermeasures (DIRCM). We have installed systems on more than 1,500 aircraft of 80 types, including CV-22, CH/MH-53, CH-46 and a host of additional rotary and fixed wing types. We’ve been protecting warfighters against infrared threats for more than 50 years, with a track record of innovation, investment and over a million operational flight hours.

Our team has led the way with core IRCM technologies, including: