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Phase 4B2 C-130J Large Aircraft Infra-red Countermeasures (LAIRCM)
Phase Scope
Phase 4B2 is intended to provide additional Electronic Warfare Self Protection (EWSP) for the C-130J aircraft consisting of infrared counter-measure systems.
Background
AIR 5416 (ECHIDNA) is a multi-phase project dealing with improving EWSP across a number of aircraft. Phase 4 was to acquire EWSP for C-130J aircraft. It is structured as follows:
- Phase 4A (approved in 2005) was brought forward from the original Phase 4 and provided a missile warning and flare dispensing capability for the C-130J.
- Phase 4B1 (approved) is to acquire a radar warning receiver (RWR) for the C-130J.
- Phase 4B2 plans to acquire a laser-based infrared countermeasure system for the C-130J.
Australian Industry Opportunities
Acquisition
This phase relies heavily on the provision of Military-off-the-Shelf (MOTS) EWSP systems through US Foreign Military Sales (FMS).
The installation of the laser based infrared countermeasures systems may be carried out under FMS arrangements or under commercial arrangements with support from Australian industry.
Through‑life Support
Due to the US centred FMS nature of the proposed procurements, Australian industry involvement in system support is expected to be limited.
Industry Capabilities and Activities
Capabilities and related activities that may provide opportunities for Australian industry in this phase includes:
| Capability | ||
|---|---|---|
| Activity | Electronic Warfare | Rotary & Fixed Wing Aircraft |
| Assemble / Install | D | |
| Repair and Maintain | D | |
| Test and Evaluate | D | D |
Acquisition Category (ACAT)
| ACAT Attribute | Complexity Level Assessment |
| Acquisition Cost | Level 3 Moderate $100m-$500m (Towards the lower end of the band) |
| Project Management Complexity | Level 2 High |
| Schedule | Level 2 High |
| Technical Difficulty | Level 2 High |
| Operation and Support | Level 3 Moderate |
| Commercial | Level 3 Moderate |
The ACAT Level assessed for this Phase is ACAT II.
Planned Schedule Highlights
| First Pass Approval | FY 2009-10 to FY 2010-11 |
|---|---|
| Year-of-Decision | FY 2011-12 to FY 2012-13 |
| Initial Operating Capability | 2012 to 2014 |
Points of Contact
Capability Staff:Deputy Director Aircraft Survivability |
Defence Materiel Organisation:Director Airborne Self Protection Systems Program Office
|
