Norway Orders Cassidian Missile Launch Detectors

Cassidian, the recently renamed defence and security pillar of EADS, will protect the F-16 fighter aircraft of the Royal Norwegian Air Force (RnoAF) against missile attacks. Cassidian Electronics has received a multi-million euro contract from RNoAF to deliver more than 100 AN/AAR-60 (V) 2 MILDS F sensors (MILDS F = Missile Launch Detection System, Fighter). Deliveries will commence in June 2011. During the project execution phase close contact to local authorities is supported by Oslo-based EADS Norway.

“MILDS F with its very low false alarm rate and fast detection combined with automatic initiation of countermeasures relieves the pilot’s workload in time-critical situations and ensures the safe return of both crew and aircraft”, explains Bernd Wenzler, CEO of Cassidian Electronics

MILDS F is a passive, imaging sensor detecting the UV radiation signature of approaching missiles. The extremely high resolution combined with rapid processing enables very reliable threat identification and virtually eliminates false alarms. Several sensors linked to a Countermeasure Signal Processor provide full spherical coverage and rapid reaction. The system allows flexible installation in either pylons, pods or in the fuselage of fighter aircraft. MILDS F considerably enhances the protection against anti aircraft missiles such as shoulder-fired infrared-guided missiles, which cannot be detected by current warning systems.

MILDS F is currently under implementation into operational use onboard the Royal Danish Air Force F-16A/B Block 15. Here, six MILDS F sensors (3 on each wing) and one processor are integrated into TERMA A/S’ Pylon Integrated Dispenser System (PIDS+) and Electronic Combat Integrated Pylon System (ECIPS+) and linked to the AN/ALQ-213 EW Management System.

MILDS F is based on the MILDS (Missile Launch Detection System) sensor proven in service aboard a huge variety of rotary wing and wide body aircraft, including Tiger, NH90, CH-53, CH-47 and C-130 and is especially designed to operate in the harsh fighter aircraft environment. MILDS F is also ideally suited for installation on other fighter aircraft like Tornado, Eurofighter or Gripen.


Cassidian, an EADS company, is a worldwide leader in global security solutions and systems, providing lead system integration and value-added products and services to civil and military customers around the globe: air systems (aircraft and unmanned aerial systems), land & naval and joint systems, intelligence and surveillance, cybersecurity, secure communications, test systems, missiles, services and support solutions. In 2009, Cassidian – with around 21,000 employees – achieved revenues of EUR 5.4 billion. EADS is a global leader in aerospace, defence and related services. In 2009, EADS generated revenues of EUR 42.8 billion and employed a workforce of about 119,000.