Germany launches BriteCloud from target drone
BriteCloud-218 decoy is ejected from a remotely piloted air target system for the first time.
The German Armed Forces successfully conducted the first live launch of a BriteCloud-218 decoy in a recent trial, manufacturer Leonardo announced on 17 February.
BriteCloud-218 rounds were ejected from an Airbus remotely piloted air target system (RPATS) test platform.
‘The trial proved the ability of Leonardo’s flare-sized electronic device to outwit missiles equipped with Semi-Active Radar (SAR) seeker technology,’ the company added.
Shephard Defence Insight describes BriteCloud as a ‘last ditch’ defence for a fighter to lure an incoming missile away from the targeted aircraft where it will explode harmlessly.
Launched from a standard countermeasure dispenser, the flare-sized BriteCloud electronic device transmits powerful radio emissions that simulate a target, drawing missile threats away from the aircraft.
Germany is the first country to trial BriteCloud as a protection capability for RPATS aircraft, also known as target drones.
In the US, the Air National Guard is leading Foreign Comparative Testing trials of BriteCloud to confirm its suitability for the countermeasure dispensers on F-16 aircraft.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Embraer sees 27% uptick in Q3 defence revenue, progress in NATO and India campaigns]()
Embraer sees 27% uptick in Q3 defence revenue, progress in NATO and India campaigns
The company also affirmed that it would maintain its current trajectory and remain “on track” for its full-year guidance.
-
![South Korea: $16.64 billion in as-yet-unawarded contracts up for grabs in the air domain]()
South Korea: $16.64 billion in as-yet-unawarded contracts up for grabs in the air domain
South Korea’s military air market is the 12th largest in the world when it comes to unawarded procurement programmes, with an estimated US$7.50 billion potentially set to be awarded over the next decade.
-
![Indonesia receives first A400M, considers four more aircraft]()
Indonesia receives first A400M, considers four more aircraft
The A400M aircraft that has been delivered was first ordered in 2021 with a second aircraft due to arrive next year.
-
![Boeing prepared to go fast on CxR uncrewed tiltrotor concept]()
Boeing prepared to go fast on CxR uncrewed tiltrotor concept
The Collaborative Transformational Rotorcraft is designed with the potential to meet a range of mission requirements, from reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition to contested logistics.
-
![Anduril’s YFQ-44A successfully completes first flight test]()
Anduril’s YFQ-44A successfully completes first flight test
The drone is the second prototype to take flight under the US Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft programme.
-
![Italy moves to procure third batch of 29 AW249 helicopters]()
Italy moves to procure third batch of 29 AW249 helicopters
The €1.22 billion (US$1.41 billion) follow-on order for the additional helicopters will complement the 19 AW249 already ordered by Italy.
