Northrop Grumman CIRCM system selected for Germany’s CH-47 Chinook
Germany is set to acquire 47 Common Infrared Countermeasures (CIRCM) systems from Northrop Grumman as part of a US Army production award.
The acquisition will mark the first delivery of the CIRCM system to Germany and supports modernisation of its rotary aircraft fleet in line with Nato combat readiness requirements.
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Northrop Grumman’s CIRCM system, categorised as a programme of record by the US Army, is designed to protect military helicopters through electro-optical infrared technology.
The system is designed for use on rotary wing, tiltrotor, and small fixed wing aircraft, employing advanced laser and pointing technologies against infrared-guided missiles.
It counters threats such as shoulder-fired missiles by using a laser to disrupt targeting signals and prevent successful tracking.
According to Northrop Grumman, nearly 700 CIRCM systems have already been installed on rotary wing aircraft globally, accumulating over 70,000 operational flight hours on platforms including the AH-64, CH-47, and UH-60. The company stated that “no aircraft losses” have occurred while using the system.
In 2023, the US Army declared initial operational capability for Northrop Grumman’s CIRCM solution.
Northrop Grumman aircraft survivability vice president Leah Hooten said: “More international partners are recognising CIRCM’s pioneering protection capabilities to maximise successful missions. With open architecture, the lightweight CIRCM system stays ready for any mission with the agility for rapid technology upgrades. It’s not only ideal for small aircraft – it’s a crucial system that brings key advantages to our international warfighters.”
The CIRCM system will be installed on Germany’s newly ordered CH-47 Chinook helicopters.
Germany first signalled its intent in 2022, outlining plans to buy 60 CH-47F Chinook heavy-lift helicopters to replace the ageing Sikorsky-made CH-53G helicopters.
That effort advanced in October 2025, when Boeing received a hybrid cost-plus-fixed-fee and firm-fixed-price contract for up to 60 CH-47F Block II cargo helicopters, covering performance-based logistics, training, and non-recurring engineering.
The contract action is valued at $876.42m, with work to be performed in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, and scheduled for completion by 28 October 2035.
