The Department of Homeland Security has announced it is awarding contracts for the final engineering, prototype development, and deployment testing of a protective system for U.S. commercial aircraft against shoulder fired missiles, known as Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS). Two teams, one led by BAE Systems and one led by Northrop Grumman, are receiving funding of approximately $45 million each for this 18-month final prototype phase of the program. While there is no credible, specific intelligence information about planned MANPADS attacks against U.S. commercial aircraft, Homeland Security has aggressively pursued countermeasures technology development as part of the administration’s strategy to counter this potential threat. This significantly expedited pilot program is adapting existing technology already in use on military aircraft for commercial aviation use. This technology adaptation approach will speed the development of a deployable prototype, and will ensure that the resulting countermeasures are consistent with airport operations and commercial air carrier logistics and safety that include such activities as maintenance, support, and training. Full Story
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