BIRD Aerosystems has secured a new contract from the Israeli Ministry of Defense to develop and deliver an upgraded Airborne Missile Protection System (AMPS) for integration onto the Israeli Air Force’s AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, the company announced on September 8.
The contract, issued through the Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D), includes development, installation, and testing of BIRD’s compact airborne defense suite, featuring its newly developed µDIRCM solution—described by the company as the smallest and most advanced Directed Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) system currently available.
In a statement, BIRD said the system was designed to counter modern ground-to-air missile threats by combining detection, tracking, confirmation, and laser-based jamming into a single lightweight unit. The solution is engineered to deliver rapid response times with minimal false alarms, offering operational protection even for small or rotary-wing platforms.
“This is a major milestone for BIRD Aerosystems,” said Matan Perry, Vice President of Marketing & Sales. “We are proud that the Israeli Air Force—one of the most advanced air forces in the world—has chosen our newest DIRCM to protect its AH-64. Our solution combines cutting-edge technology in the world’s most compact and lightweight DIRCM system, delivering unmatched protection facing today’s threats.”
According to the company, the µDIRCM suite will be integrated directly into the Apache airframe, enhancing survivability during operations in environments where infrared-guided missiles remain a persistent threat. While Israel’s Apache helicopters are already equipped with traditional countermeasures, this contract introduces an advanced layer of electronic protection designed specifically for low-altitude combat scenarios.
“This strategic program, in partnership with the Ministry of Defense and DDR&D, reflects both our deep commitment to national defense and our proven capabilities in delivering mission-critical technologies that meet the most demanding operational needs,” said Ronen Factor, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of BIRD Aerosystems. “It is a great personal and professional privilege for my Co-CEO, Mr. David Dragucki, and me to lead the company now selected to equip the Israeli Air Force’s AH-64A with the most advanced airborne protection systems available today.”
The Apache, manufactured by Boeing and operated by the Israeli Air Force since the 1990s, remains one of Israel’s key rotary-wing platforms for close air support, anti-armor missions, and counterterrorism operations. Enhancing its survivability against man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) is a core priority, especially given the evolving threat landscape across the region.
BIRD’s µDIRCM system—short for “micro-DIRCM”—has previously been marketed as a solution suitable for both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. The company says it can be integrated into a wide range of platforms due to its low weight, minimal power requirements, and modular architecture.
According to BIRD, demand for lightweight self-protection systems is growing worldwide, with interest not only from traditional air forces but also from operators of special mission aircraft and unmanned platforms.
The company did not disclose the timeline for fielding the system on operational aircraft or the value of the contract.