Korean KHP Helicopter Self-Protection Suite to Integrate MILDS Warning System

EADS Defence & Security (DS) will equip the self-protection system under development in the Korean Helicopter Program KHP with its proven MILDS (Missile Launch Detection System) missile warning sensor.

As reported by the company on Monday, Defence Electronics, an integrated Business Unit of EADS DS, will provide in a first step the sensors for the development phase. From 2008 onward the sensors will be integrated by the Korean company LIGNex1 into the KHP self-protection system which is currently under development. The Korean Armed Forces are planning to procure roughly 250 helicopters.

"Being extremely reliable and ensuring rapid detection, MILDS AN/AAR-60 relieves the pilot’s workload in time-critical situations and ensures the safe return of both crew and aircraft", explained Bernd Wenzler, CEO of Defence Electronics.

MILDS AN/AAR-60 is an advanced, passive imaging sensor which detects and tracks the ultraviolet emissions of approaching missiles. This is particularly effective agaginst the most prevalent threat of infrared-guided shoulder launched missiles. The system provides full coverage, an extraordinary low false alarm rate and maximum warning time to enable the deployment of countermeasures such as Chaff/Flares. The sensor has been proven in service in more than 5,000 units aboard a huge variety of rotary wing and wide body aircraft; a version for fighter aircraft is under development.

In the field of electronic self-protection and missile warning, Defence Electronics is involved in the self-protection systems of the Eurofighter, the A400M transport aircraft and the Tiger and NH90 helicopters as well as in the German Army's CH-53 upgrade programme.

Source: EADS Defence & Security provides missile warning sensors to Korean Helicopter Program