CIRCM - Common Infrared Countermeasures

soldiers conducting conduct sling load operations from helicopter

5th Generation IRCM Technology for Unparalleled Warfighter Protection

Our Common Infrared Countermeasures (CIRCM) solution is a lightweight, highly reliable infrared countermeasure system that is compatible with rotary wing, tiltrotor and small fixed wing aircraft. Within two years of commencing full-rate production, CIRCM has delivered its 500th shipset and achieved over 30,000 operational flight hours across the AH-64, CH-47 and UH-60.

CIRCM utilizes the most advanced laser and pointing technology to protect warfighters against advanced infrared missiles – thus enabling mission success. This affordable solution interfaces with existing aircraft survivability equipment and uses open architecture to support future growth.

Learn more > Common Infrared Countermeasures (CIRCM) - Datasheet
aircraft infrared-guided anti-aircraft missile threat protection system

The Low-Risk Approach to High-Level Protection

The system architecture is designed to defeat modern infrared anti-aircraft missiles while conforming to the challenging size, weight, and power restrictions of smaller airframes.

Benefits, Listed by Feature:

Pointer/Tracker

  • Low cost
  • High reliability
  • Lightweight and suitable for light helicopters
  • Minimal air-stream intrusion
  • Modular design
  • Configured for capability enhancements and spiral upgrades

Quantum Cascade Laser

  • Fast, simultaneous break-lock jamming
  • Power to defeat future threats
  • Reliable solid-state sources
  • All-weather, all-altitude operation
  • Field replaceable
  • Dual production facilities
military helicopter in air

Most Experienced Team in Laser IRCM

Northrop Grumman is a leading innovator in laser directional infrared countermeasures (DIRCM). We have installed systems on more than 1,500 aircraft of 80 types, including CV-22, CH/MH-53, CH-46 and a host of additional rotary and fixed wing types. We’ve been protecting warfighters against infrared threats for more than 50 years, with a track record of innovation, investment and over a million operational flight hours.

Our team has led the way with core IRCM technologies, including:

  • Multiband laser
  • Continuous laser automatic boresighting
  • QCL laser technology
  • Battle-ready track algorithms
  • High resolution camera
  • Multi-pointer jamming synchronization

With our CIRCM solution, high-level protection comes with low risk.

 

In the News

soldiers conducting conduct sling load operations from helicopter

Northrop Grumman’s Pioneering CIRCM Technology Ensures Mission Safety for the US Army

digital illustration of future aircraft

Ten Things to Know about the Future of Vertical Lift

man holding sensor in front of electronic dashboard

Advancing Survivability for Army Aircrews – A Generational Leap in Threat Detection Technology

miliary helicopters in flight

A Very Close Look At The Anti-Missile System That Will Equip 1,500+ US Army Helicopters

man testing radar in laboratory

Northrop Grumman-built Common Infrared Countermeasure Systems Approved by US Army for Early Fielding

blackhawk helicopter in sky

Major protector of aircraft achieves Initial Operational Capability

Media Inquiries

Ellen Hamilton
ellen.hamilton@ngc.com
(224) 625-4693

 

The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.