There is a need for IRCM system counter threats that are difficult to defeat using conventional IRCM techniques. Because the new generation of threats are more capable, IRCM energy must be directed at the missile threat to obtain sufficient energy on target to cause it to miss the aircraft. In order to attain the energy on target, an IR jammer must be able to track the threat missile with enough accuracy to point a laser at the seeker. Current IR detectors in tracking sensors are expensive and must be cooled in order to achieve the sensitivity needed to track IR missile threats in all phases of flight. The coolers used with these detectors are the least reliable part of the sensor. These coolers cause a reduction in the reliability of the tracking sensor, increase maintenance requirements, and increase the cost of the sensors. Developing an uncooled IR detector for the tracking sensor will reduce the design complexity, reduce the production costs and increase the reliability of the tracking sensor. The miniaturized uncooled image intensified charge coupled device (I2CCD) system that is the subject of this Phase I SBIR will provide low cost, compact, high reliability precision tracking device for a variety of defense and civil airborne platforms. Beyond the obvious protection of fixed and rotary wing military assets, the precision tracker can support antiterrorist assets, coastal reconnaissance aircraft, and governmental and personal aircraft flying in high-risk areas worldwide.
Keywords: Infrared Countermeasures (Ircm), Self-Protection, Missile Warning, Missile Tracking, Directed Ir
