WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — The US Air Force signed a $111 million contract with Northrop Grumman for advanced system to protect its aircraft from shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles earlier in June 2015 and will purchase additional defenses.
“Under the terms of the $31.7 million contract, Northrop Grumman will deliver three modernized third-generation pods,” the defense contractor said. “The third-generation pod provides 360-degree protection against a wide range of missile threats.”
The advanced small pods placed on the aircraft are designed to track and jam with a laser incoming man-portable air-defense system (MANPADS), or shoulder fired missiles. The system’s defenses are automatic and require no action by the pilot to counter incoming guided missiles.
With the onset of multiple conflicts in the Middle East, including in Syria and Libya, the United States has expressed concern MANPADS could fall into the wrong hands and be used against civil aviation.
The purchase of additional defenses against MANPADS comes as a US-led Coalition continues an air campaign against the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq. Reports indicate the Islamic State is in possession of MANPADS.
