PPGI makes missile-warning sensors

Designers at ATK Missile Systems in Clearwater, Fla. have chosen Photonic Products Group Inc. (PPGI) of Northvale, N.J. to make optical components for a missile warning system that protects U.S. aircraft in Iraq from shoulder-fired missiles.

PPGI will deliver more than 5,500 of two types of ultraviolet (UV)-waveband optical filter elements for ATK’s upgraded AN/AAR-47 Missile Warning Systems. PPGI’s ultraviolet filters are made from high-uniformity, single synthetic crystals, which absorb all wavelengths except those in the UV region of the electromagnetic spectrum. For more information, see www.ppgrpinc.com.

The AN/AAR-47 system is an electro-optical missile warning system installed on transport aircraft and helicopters. It detects launches from heat-seeking missiles as well as laser-guided and laser-aided threats. After detecting a missile, the system automatically sends a signal to a flare dispenser to dispense appropriate countermeasures and alerts the aircrew.

ATK has received $23 million in contracts since January 2005 to equip additional fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft with the AN/AAR-47 and sensor upgrade kits. The system is credited with saving numerous aircraft in Iraq from attack with heat-seeking, shoulder-fired missiles.