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.
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