Defence Online

Northrop Grumman CIRCM system ready for full-rate production

Air March 19, 2021

The US Army has declared the Northrop Grumman Common Infrared Countermeasure (CIRCM) system operationally suitable, effective and ready for full-rate production following a successful six-month initial operational test and evaluation (IOT&E) activity.

CIRCM’s dual-jammer configuration helps to protect aircrews while providing the highest level of aircraft survivability. The CIRCM system provides protection against a wide range of infrared-guided anti-aircraft missile threats, including shoulder-fired and vehicle-launched.

During the rigorous testing, the system was flown through a multitude of scenarios and environments to assess CIRCM’s ability to detect, engage and defeat threats. The system rapidly defeated all threats during IOT&E, proving it is ready to support the complex missions of the US Army.

In addition to baseline performance, the system’s next-generation open architecture design will enable rapid and timely capability enhancements to keep pace with changing mission needs.

Northrop Grumman also leverages digital engineering technologies and lean-Agile methodologies to deliver continued system improvement throughout CIRCM’s lifecycle to counter new and evolving threats.

Bob Gough, vice president, navigation, targeting and survivability, Northrop Grumman, said:“Through our partnership with the US Army and our suppliers, we have already delivered over 100 production systems.

“The successful completion of IOT&E confirms CIRCM’s readiness for full-rate production.”

image courtesy of Northrop Grumman

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CIRCM Common Infrared Countermeasure IOT&E Northrop Grumman

Post written by: Matt Brown