But Tight Defense Budgets Delay Purchase Of Airborne Infrared Countermeasures In Some Countries

Market participants have been developing airborne infrared countermeasures (IRCM) systems to help fend off growing threats to low-flying aircraft. Due to advancements in man portable surface-to-air missiles, market participants are investing in R&D to find IRCM that autonomously defend against these threats.

"Global IRCM spending on large aircraft will remain stable as the United States, continues to upgrade its Air Force planes," said Frost & Sullivan Aerospace & Defense Senior Industry Analyst John Hernandez. "Steady opportunities will emerge for market participants as the U.S. Air Force plans to acquire 179 KC-46A tankers between 2015 and 2028."

On the downside, tight defense budgets led to the delay of IRCM equipment purchases in some countries. Most third-world countries are going to adopt airborne IRCM systems several years down the road. They are still building defense structures, which require time and development through proper priority purchases.

"Some countries have stretched their defense budgets to procure new platforms and upgrade existing ones, due to the aftermath of conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq," noted Hernandez. "Additionally, the need to expand funds dedicated to airborne IRCM in North America and Europe, will fuel market growth."

Currently, most R&D related to airborne IRCM is being done by the U.S. because it has the largest air force and helicopter fleets. Other countries have been capitalizing on U.S.' efforts by procuring IRCM systems that have been field-tested.

Countries across the globe are showing a particular interest in laser-based IRCM systems that are more cost-effective in the long run compared to flares. India is no exception to this trend. Due to funding shortages, India has limited ability to procure AH-64 (Apache) and CH-47 (Chinook) helicopters. Its demand for laser-based IRCM systems has reduced considerably.

FMI: www.frost.com