Israel’s Bird AeroSystems announced on 27 March 2024 that it has successfully installed its advanced Self Protection Radar Electro-Optic System (SPREOS) directed infra-red countermeasures (DIRCM) system and Aeroshield Missile Protection System (AMPS) “on multiple Airbus A319 aircraft for an undisclosed European customer”, which ESD believes to be the Hungarian Air Force (HAF).
Publicity photographs published by Bird to accompany its announcement included an image of a grey-liveried A319 in which the insignia had been largely airbrushed out. However, the livery of the aircraft matches that of the two A319s operated by the HAF, while an emblem on the nose of the aircraft under the cockpit windows matches one that appears on the HAF A319s.
Bird AeroSystems management, including co-CEOs David Dragucki (left) and Ronen Factor (second from left), in front of an A319 that has been integrated with Bird AeroSystems’ SPREOS DIRCM system and Aeroshield Missile Protection System. Although most of the aircraft’s insignia have been airbrushed out, the emblem on the nose of the aircraft under the cockpit windows matches one that appears on the Hungarian Air Force’s A319s. (Photo: Bird AeroSystems)
SPREOS is a patented DIRCM system for missile approach verification, tracking, and laser jamming that features semi-active dual-band radar fused with IR tracking and countermeasure capabilities. The system ensures precise protection against manportable air defence system (MANPADS) threats that can be integrated with diverse missile warning systems.
Bird’s AMPS solution, designed for both the military and civilian markets, provides complete protection against ground-to-air threats, including MANPADS attacks, for helicopters and VVIP aircraft for heads of states. It was installed on the Airbus A319 as a podded solution.
“The successful installation of our systems on the undisclosed European customer’s Airbus A319 marks a significant milestone for Bird AeroSystems as the supplier of advanced DIRCM technology and comprehensive airborne self-protection systems,” Bird AeroSystems co-CEO and founder Ronen Factor was quoted as saying in the Bird press release. “This achievement was celebrated in a special ceremony featuring a demonstration flight with simulations of real missile threats, showcasing the advanced capabilities of our systems. As a prominent player in defence technology manufacturing, Bird AeroSystems continues to demonstrate its dedication to delivering a high-end comprehensive solution for airborne self-protection systems.”
