F-16 Fighting Falcon News

November 1, 2010 (by Lothar Belz) - Cassidian, the recently renamed defence and security pillar of EADS, will protect the F-16 fighter aircraft of the Royal Norwegian Airforce (RNoAF) against missile attacks.
Cassidian Electronics has received a multi-million euro contract from RNoAF to deliver more than 100 AN/AAR-60 (V) 2 MILDS® F sensors (MILDS F = Missile Launch Detection System, Fighter). Deliveries will commence in June 2011.

"MILDS® F with its very low false alarm rate and fast detection combined with automatic initiation of countermeasures relieves the pilot's workload in time-critical situations and ensures the safe return of both crew and aircraft", explains Bernd Wenzler, CEO of Cassidian Electronics

The passive imaging sensor detects the UV radiation signature of approaching missiles. The extremely high resolution combined with rapid processing enables very reliable threat identification and virtually eliminates false alarms.

Several sensors linked to a Countermeasure Signal Processor provide full spherical coverage and rapid reaction. The system allows flexible installation in either pylons, pods or in the fuselage of fighter aircraft. MILDS® F considerably enhances the protection against anti aircraft missiles such as shoulder-fired infrared-guided missiles, which cannot be detected by current warning systems.

Operational implementation is currently underway onboard the Royal Danish Airforce (RDAF) F-16A/B block 15. 6 MILDS® F sensors (3 on each wing) and one processor are integrated into TERMA A/S Pylon Integrated Dispenser System (PIDS+) and Electronic Combat Integrated Pylon System (ECIPS+) and linked to the AN/ALQ-213 EW Management System.

The MILDS® F is based on the MILDS® (Missile Launch Detection System) sensor proven in service aboard a huge variety of rotary wing and wide body aircraft and is especially designed to operate in the harsh fighter aircraft environment.