Elbit to support anti-missile systems for NATO A330 tanker fleet
The NSPA-dedicated centre will also provide repair, spare parts and maintenance services. (Photo: NATO)
The NATO Support and Procurement Agency centre in Luxembourg will support the direct infrared countermeasures system fitted to the Multi-Role Tanker Transport Capability 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
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: Early adopters and big spenders point to UAV market opportunities]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: Early adopters and big spenders point to UAV market opportunities
While an estimated $37.99bn is still to be awarded across the Asia-Pacific uncrewed aerial vehicle market, the balance of potential future spending is unevenly split between various countries, with significant opportunities to be found in the collaborative combat aircraft space.
-
![British Army ACP project progresses with contract selection expected March 2026]()
British Army ACP project progresses with contract selection expected March 2026
Known as Project Nyx, the loyal wingman developed from this initiative will accompany the Apache 64-E and be used to complement tanks and artillery.
-
![UK MoD awards investment for full production of RAF’s Eurofighter Typhoon radar upgrade]()
UK MoD awards investment for full production of RAF’s Eurofighter Typhoon radar upgrade
The contract deal will enable the production and integration of the Eurofighter Typhoon’s new Eurofighter Common Radar System Mk 2 on part of the UK Royal Air Force’s fleet.
-
![Bayraktar TB2: The $4.11 billion market success of a cost-effective MALE UAV]()
Bayraktar TB2: The $4.11 billion market success of a cost-effective MALE UAV
The success of the Bayraktar TB2 stems from it fulfilling a niche of providing reasonable capabilities at a low cost, leading to its acquisition by more than 30 countries including many in Africa; but there are reasons to be cautious about its potential future prospects.
-
![Podcast: Critical Care episode 7 - Designing sustainment into the future]()
Podcast: Critical Care episode 7 - Designing sustainment into the future
Sustainment has long been seen as a downstream concern — something to be managed after procurement. But what happens when you flip that mindset?
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: APAC countries explore fleet upgrade and expansion opportunities]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: APAC countries explore fleet upgrade and expansion opportunities
Ahead of the Singapore Airshow 2026, opportunities for defence firms to upgrade or replace ageing aircraft remain strong, with tactical transport, combat aircraft and maritime patrol aircraft at the top of potential procurement lists.
