REDSTONE ARSENAL, AL — The U.S. Army Project Manager for Aircraft Survivability Equipment (PM ASE)) awarded contracts on January 31, 2012 to BAE and Northrop Grumman for the Technology Development phase of the Common Infrared Countermeasure (CIRCM).

CIRCM is a Special Interest, ACAT 1D program that will serve as the Next Generation to the Advanced Threat Infrared Countermeasures program. CIRCM shall provide the sole acquisition of future laser-based countermeasure systems for all rotary-wing, tilt-rotor, and small fixed wing aircraft across the Department of Defense. The CIRCM consists of a laser-based countermeasure which will be fully integrated with an Aircraft Survivability Equipment (ASE) suite that includes passive missile warning, an improved countermeasures dispenser, and advanced expendables. CIRCM will be a light-weight, low cost, highly reliable, laser-based countermeasure system designed to work in conjunction with missile warning systems across the Services.

The TD Phase contracts provide for a twenty-one (21) month period of performance. The contracts include both Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) and Firm Fixed Price (FFP) elements and will utilize competitive prototyping.

“CIRCM will bolster the level of protection that is provided to our aircrews and passengers from MANPADS as it combines with the Common Missile Warning System to ensure an envelope of protection,” said Col. John Leaphart, PM ASE.

“This contract award for CIRCM is the result of a strong team effort. We are excited about moving the program forward with our industry partners and ultimately adding this great system into the Army inventory,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Brown, Product Manager Countermeasures.

Additional information regarding the CIRCM program will be made available following a debriefing period.