Leonardo DRS delivers 1,000th infrared sensor key to U.S. Army helicopter missile warning system

Leonardo DRS, Inc. provided the 1,000th advanced sensor package which is at the core of BAE Systems’ 2-Color Advanced Warning System (2CAWS), a next-generation missile warning and hostile fire detection system. The system is designed to protect U.S. Army pilots and crews from new and emerging missile threats.

The advanced DRS 2-color infrared detector package is integrated into BAE Systems’ 2CAWS system for the U.S. Army’s Limited Interim Missile Warning System (LIMWS) Quick Reaction Capability program.

The 2CAWS technology provides a foundation for the Army’s current and future threat detection needs by giving aircrews advanced 360-degree threat detection capabilities to enhance survivability.

“We're proud to have reached this important milestone and be partnered with BAE Systems to have developed this critical lifesaving technology for aircrews,” says Jerry Hathaway, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Leonardo DRS Electro-Optical and Infrared Systems business unit. “The challenges in Ukraine emphasize how important it is to have this capability on aircraft today on the battlefield to maneuver and conduct operations.”

The system was designed to provide threat information to the aircrew and integrates with countermeasure systems to protect against shoulder-fired and vehicle-launched infrared surface-to-air missiles.

U.S. Army and BAE Systems program officials recently visited the Leonardo DRS facility to celebrate the delivery of the 1,000th 2CAWS for the LIMWS program, and to congratulate employees on their dedication to keeping our frontline pilots and aircrews safe.

The Leonardo DRS has an extensive installed base of electro-optical and infrared technology across the U.S. military. Advanced sensing capability is a key strategic focus for Leonardo DRS providing world-leading sensing and laser technologies for a range of aircraft protection and mounted and unmounted sensors supporting the men and women of the U.S. armed forces.