The Bundesamt für Ausrüstung, Informationstechnik und Nutzung der Bundeswehr (BAAINBw), Germany’s defence procurement agency, has awarded Airbus Defence and Space a contract to integrate a J-MUSIC directed infrared countermeasure (DIRCM) system into the Defensive Aids Subsystem (DASS) for the Luftwaffe’s A400M fleet. Airbus will also certify the device.

The DIRCM systems, based on an Elbit Systems J-MUSIC device, will be provided by Diehl Defence, with contract performance taking place over a four-year period.

“The signing of the contract is another significant milestone for the A400M programme and also underlines the enormous growth potential of the aircraft and the confidence Germany has in it,” observed Head of the A400M Programme, Michael Menking. “The integration of the DE DIRCM system into the A400M will further enhance the aircraft’s self-protection and bring additional capability in the theatre of operations.”