Elbit Systems Unveils Dispensable RF Decoy For Aircraft Countermeasure Suite

LE BOURGET—Elbit Systems has unveiled an expendable radio frequency (RF) countermeasure at the Paris Air Show here that can operate independently after release from a host aircraft to lure away incoming air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles. 

Many military aircraft carry RF countermeasures, but they are usually either jettisoned as passive chaff or towed behind the aircraft as an actively emitting decoy. 

Elbit’s new Nano Self Protection Electronic Attack and Reconnaissance (SPEAR) countermeasure is designed to split the difference between passive and active systems. 

The Nano SPEAR, which weighs less than 800 grams, is dispensed like a passive chaff system, but functions like an active decoy. The new Elbit countermeasure is also winged, allowing it to navigate independently of the host aircraft.  

“We will continue to invest significant R&D efforts to supply the most advanced, cutting-edge and cost-effective solutions guaranteeing comprehensive protection and mission success,” said Oren Sabag, Elbit’s general manager for electronic warfare. 

The Nano SPEAR adds to Elbit’s portfolio of SPEAR products, which also include a Micro SPEAR, Light SPEAR and Advanced SPEAR pod.