CIRCM - Common Infrared Countermeasures
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.
Always On, Mostly Unseen and Globally Proven
It takes CIRCM mere seconds to lock onto the missile and generate pulses that confuse the missile, automatically steering it off course.
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
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
Northrop Grumman’s Pioneering CIRCM Technology Ensures Mission Safety for the US Army
Advancing Survivability for Army Aircrews – A Generational Leap in Threat Detection Technology
A Very Close Look At The Anti-Missile System That Will Equip 1,500+ US Army Helicopters (TheAviationis)
Northrop Grumman-built Common Infrared Countermeasure Systems Approved by US Army for Early Fielding
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.