The Canadian military is seeking Israeli defence contractors to install a new air defence system to bolster security of its VIP aircraft against surface-to-air missiles, including the one used by Canada Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

Elbit Systems has already working covertly to get in on the anticipated programme involving a system that will be able to defeat ‘modern, man-portable infrared missiles’, according to the Canadian Press.

In a bid to enhance in-flight security from the threat of man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS), Elbit Systems developed SkyShield / commercial multi-spectral infrared countermeasures (C-MUSIC) missile protection system.

"The recent disaster over eastern Ukraine and the shooting down of Malaysian Airlines jet MH-17 is likely to have fast-tracked the project."

The latest procurement forms part of the Canada’s National Defence acquisition guide, which was earlier planned for 2020 and beyond.

The recent disaster over eastern Ukraine and the shooting down of Malaysian Airlines jet MH-17 is likely to have fast-tracked the project.

SkyShield/C-MUSIC is a passive system incorporating a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) missile-tracking camera and an infrared (IR), ultra-violet (UV), or radar missile-approach warning system (MAWS) sensor that spots missile launch in the initial stages of an attack.

After detecting the missile, the system launches a laser to jam its seeker and then deflects the missile off of its trajectory, further enabling to it to burst out a safe distance away from the aircraft.

Capable of being integrated on both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, the new system is also planned to be deployed by the Brazilian and Italian air forces, while Israeli airlines are also to be equipped with the new system.

Defence Technology