ATHENA System Safeguards Aircraft from Infrared Missiles

24 Oct 2023 7:27 am GMT+0000 Date Time

Northop Grumman Introduces New Warning System to Protect Aircraft from Missile Threat
Northop Grumman has unveiled a new warning system called the Advanced Tactical Hostile Engagement Awareness (Athena), designed to protect aircraft from the growing threat of infrared-guided missiles launched from portable anti-aircraft missile systems (Manpads). The use of Manpads by terrorists has been a source of major concern on the modern battlefield. These portable launchers, dating back to the 1950s, can shoot missiles that block the infrared signature of an aircraft engine, making it extremely difficult to detect and counter such threats. To counter this threat, Athena utilizes Staring Sensor technology, which remains constantly active, monitoring potential threats. Unlike previous sensor generations, Athena boasts a large resolution and range, providing more time to detect and respond to incoming missiles. A key advantage of Athena is its independent data processors, equipped with advanced software. This enables the system to operate autonomously, without burdening the computing resources of the aircraft. Dennis Neel, director of the Northrop Grumman program, highlighted the versatility of Athena’s sensors, stating, “AThena demonstrates our approach to utilizing accessible equipment to perform multiple functions and tasks, thereby increasing the survival rate of aircraft and providing situational awareness previously available only to much larger aircraft.” Neel stressed that the ultimate goal is to ensure the safe return of military personnel.

Northop Grumman Introduces New Warning System to Protect Aircraft from Missile Threat

Northop Grumman has unveiled a new warning system called the Advanced Tactical Hostile Engagement Awareness (Athena), designed to protect aircraft from the growing threat of infrared-guided missiles launched from portable anti-aircraft missile systems (Manpads).

The use of Manpads by terrorists has been a source of major concern on the modern battlefield. These portable launchers, dating back to the 1950s, can shoot missiles that block the infrared signature of an aircraft engine, making it extremely difficult to detect and counter such threats.

To counter this threat, Athena utilizes Staring Sensor technology, which remains constantly active, monitoring potential threats. Unlike previous sensor generations, Athena boasts a large resolution and range, providing more time to detect and respond to incoming missiles.

A key advantage of Athena is its independent data processors, equipped with advanced software. This enables the system to operate autonomously, without burdening the computing resources of the aircraft.

Dennis Neel, director of the Northrop Grumman program, highlighted the versatility of Athena’s sensors, stating, “AThena demonstrates our approach to utilizing accessible equipment to perform multiple functions and tasks, thereby increasing the survival rate of aircraft and providing situational awareness previously available only to much larger aircraft.” Neel stressed that the ultimate goal is to ensure the safe return of military personnel.

/Reports, release notes, official announcements.