Elbit to support anti-missile systems for NATO A330 tanker fleet

Elbit Systems has signed a five-year in-service support contract with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) for the direct infrared countermeasures (DIRCM) systems fitted to the alliance's A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport Capability (MRTT-C) fleet.

The contract, announced on 24 January, includes establishing a service centre at NSPA to provide support and logistics for the system.

The DIRCM can protect larger military aircraft against attacks from infrared-guided missiles.

‘Demand for our DIRCM systems is growing due to increased threats posed to aircraft. We are proud to provide NATO with a logistics and service centre for local repair and maintenance of our systems,’ Oren Sabag, GM of Elbit Systems ISTAR & EW, noted in a statement.

The NSPA-dedicated facility, located in Luxembourg, will be an essential resource for the DIRCM-equipped A330 MRTT fleet, providing necessary expertise, equipment and maintenance, Elbit said.

The centre will also provide repair, spare parts and maintenance services.

Additionally, Elbit was awarded a follow-up contract from NSPA for an additional J-MUSIC system, part of the MUSIC DIRCM family.

The laser-based fully autonomous system is said to provide protection against advanced heat-seeking surface-to-air missiles.

Seven systems are already integrated, certified and operational on NATO MRTTs.

Related Programmes in Defence Insight

A330 MRTT (1-9) [NATO]

Related Equipment in Defence Insight

A330 MRTT