Northrop Grumman to equip Directional Infrared Countermeasures System onboard US Marine Corps CH-53D and CH-46E helicopters

Northrop Grumman Corporation has been awarded separate contracts to outfit U.S. Marine Corps CH-53D and CH-46E helicopters with the company's battle-proven Directional Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM) system.

Under the terms of these latest contracts, with a combined value of approximately $13.3 million, Northrop Grumman will integrate the DIRCM self-protection system onto the Marines' CH-53D helicopter fleet, making the CH-53D the third Marine Corps rotary-wing platform to receive DIRCM protection from shoulder-launched, heat-seeking missile threats.

In addition, numerous enhancements will be incorporated on the CH-46E helicopter fleet to streamline maintenance and handling of the system in the field. System deliveries will begin this year, with final deliveries in 2009.

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