Elbit Systems has been awarded a contract to supply one of its directional infrared countermeasure (DIRCM) systems to an undisclosed Asian country.

The company will deliver an undisclosed number of its mini-multi spectral infrared countermeasures (mini-MUSIC) infrared missile warning and countermeasure systems. These will be installated on the customer’s UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters.

Elbit Systems Electro-optics-Elop general manager Adi Dar said: "In addition to being selected by a new customer, this award represents the inclusion of a new platform, the Blackhawk, to the broad portfolio of platforms already equipped with our unique DIRCM systems, including our MUSIC version for small platforms such as helicopters.

"Elbit’s DIRCM systems are designed to protect a wide range of aircraft and helicopters against man-portable air defence systems."

"Based on the growing demand for DIRCM as the preferred solution by customers worldwide, we hope that additional customers will follow and select our systems."

Launched at the 2013 Paris International Air Show in France, the mini-MUSIC is an advanced, flight-tested system designed to provide enhanced protection for all types of rotary and fixed-wing aircraft against ground-to-air missiles.

Weighing 19kg, the system features a thermal camera for accurate acquisition and tracking, sealed mirror gimbal for high reliability and a powerful fibre laser for efficient operation, as well as a hyper-hemispherical dome for maximum coverage.

Elbit’s DIRCM systems are designed to protect a wide range of aircraft and helicopters against man-portable air defence systems.

The systems are used by Israel to protect its Boeing commercial fleet, as well as Italy, Germany and Brazil for helicopters and other aircraft.

Work under the contract will be performed throughout the year.