Jerusalem, 29 July, 2025 (TPS-IL) — Israeli Defense contractor Elbit Systems announced today that it was awarded a contract worth approximately $260 million by Airbus Defence and Space (“Airbus DS”) to supply its J-MUSIC™ Directed Infrared Counter Measures (DIRCM) self-protection systems, for installation on the German Air Force A400M transport aircraft. The contract, to be executed over a 6-year period, follows a procurement decision by the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and Operations of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw).
The J-MUSIC™ DIRCM system is part of Elbit Systems’ MUSIC™ family of airborne self-protection solutions, designed to defend aircraft against infrared-guided missile threats, particularly those launched from man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS). The integration of advanced laser technology with high-performance imaging systems, enables the system to detect, track, and disrupt incoming missile threats in real time, providing autonomous protection without requiring crew intervention.
The Airbus A400M is a high-wing aircraft with four turboprop engines, a pressurized cabin and a rear cargo door, and is designed as a strategic and tactical transport and tanker aircraft.
It can transport and airdrop personnel and materiel. Transports can be carried out in different variants. Up to 116 people can be accommodated in the A400M. The large cargo hold also makes it possible to transport different materiel such as one Tiger attack helicopter, one H145M light support helicopter, three Wolf all-terrain vehicles, one Fuchs armored transport vehicle or one Puma infantry fighting vehicle.
The system is characterized by its modular and scalable architecture, allowing for integration with a wide range of aircraft platforms and missile warning systems. Its compact form factor ensures minimal impact on aircraft performance and payload capacity.