Sweden Contracts with Rheinmetall for BIRDIE 118 Helicopter Self-Protection System
29 May 2007 15:46
The Swedish Defence Material Administration has awarded Rheinmetall Waffe Munition an order for BIRDIE 118 aircraft decoys for Swedish Air Force helicopters. The decoys will be delivered in 2007 and used in future international operations.
BIRDIE, an acronym for Bi-spectral Infra-Red Decoy Improved Efficiency, is a proprietary development of Rheinmetall Waffe Munition. The BIRDIE represents a new departure in protecting helicopters against modern infrared-guided surface-to-air and air-to-air missiles. It is also uniquely effective in countering shoulder-launched Man-Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS), which are increasingly used by non-state actors, terrorist organisations, etc.
It can be used in any 1in x 1in NATO-standard dispensing system for aircraft self-protection, and is also available in a 2in x 1in calibre version, the BIRDIE 218. Numerous NATO and national tests have proved the BIRDIE's effectiveness against even the most advanced guided missiles with two-colour analysis.
Rheinmetall Waffe Munition, a subsidiary of the Düsseldorf-based Rheinmetall Defence Group, is one of the world's leading manufacturers of self-protection systems and decoys for protecting military and civilian assets. The Swedish order represents a breakthrough in the international market.
For more information on this company:
Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH - Air Weapon and Protection Systems
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