Airbus Military has successfully demonstrated the release of decoy flares from the A400M airlifter as part of the development of the aircraft’s self-protection systems.
The flares are designed to mislead heat-seeking anti-aircraft missiles, particularly surface-to- air missiles (SAM). They are a crucial part of the self-protection system because of the A400M’s ability to operate from short and unpaved airstrips close to the scene of military action where SAMs may be fielded by an enemy.
The flare system onboard the A400M is a standard production fit. The aircraft is currently being accepted by the French air force.
