Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures

The Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) program is a Major Defense Acquisition Program operating under the Major Capability Acquisition pathway. Designated as an Acquisition Category IC program, LAIRCM focuses on providing infrared countermeasure capabilities for large aircraft platforms. The program represents a significant Department of Defense initiative to enhance aircraft protection against infrared-guided threats.

Recent contract awards under the LAIRCM program range from $141,114 to $78.3 million, with performance periods spanning from one month to over four years. Major contractors include Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation and The Boeing Company, with King Aerospace Commercial Corporation serving as a subcontractor. The Department of the Air Force Materiel Command Aeronautical Systems Center is the primary contracting authority. Contract vehicles include both firm-fixed-price delivery orders and cost-plus-incentive fee arrangements. Notable work includes CH-147 Chinook alignment for Canadian forces and Boeing 777 infrared countermeasure implementation. Performance locations include Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and no set-aside designations were utilized in the reviewed contract awards. Historical contract data shows earlier program management support through Sverdrup Technology, Inc. under time and materials pricing arrangements.