Elbit Systems has secured a $260 million contract from Airbus Defence and Space to deliver its J-MUSIC Directed Infrared Counter Measures (DIRCM) system for the German Air Force’s A400M transport aircraft fleet.
According to a press release from Elbit Systems, the six-year contract follows a procurement decision by Germany’s Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw).
The agreement is aimed at enhancing the survivability of the A400M during missions in contested airspace.
As noted by the company, the new DIRCM installation will provide the aircraft with real-time defense against infrared-guided missiles, including those launched by man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS).
The J-MUSIC system is part of Elbit’s MUSIC product line and integrates advanced laser technology with high-performance thermal imaging sensors. The system automatically detects and tracks incoming missile threats and neutralizes them mid-flight without requiring pilot input. Its modular architecture allows for compatibility across a wide range of platforms and warning systems, Elbit said.
In a statement, Elbit Systems President and CEO Bezhalel Machlis said, “This contract further strengthens Elbit Systems’ position as a leading global provider of DIRCM solutions. Our systems are already trusted by numerous air forces and defense organizations around the world, and we are proud to support Germany in enhancing the protection of their strategic air assets.”
He added that the company’s collaboration with Airbus Defence and Space was “highly valued” and that the deployment of the DIRCM system would contribute directly to “the safety and operational readiness of the German A400M fleet.”
Elbit’s DIRCM technology has already been installed on various military and civilian aircraft around the world, including those operated by Israel, the Netherlands, Italy, and Brazil. The company has also partnered with multiple aircraft manufacturers to integrate DIRCM as part of both new production and retrofit programs.
The German Air Force’s decision to invest in these countermeasures comes as Western militaries increase their focus on aircraft survivability in high-threat environments. Infrared-guided missiles remain one of the most common threats to fixed-wing and rotary aircraft operating at low altitudes.
Company officials say the compact design of the J-MUSIC unit minimizes impact on aircraft weight and performance, an important consideration for cargo aircraft like the A400M, which must balance protection with payload and range.
