Kaiser Electro-Optics Develops Infrared Optical Elements for Transmitters

CARLSBAD, CA (June 20, 2001) - Kaiser Electro-Optics, a Rockwell Collins company, has developed transmitter optical assemblies for the AN/AAQ-24(V) Directed Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM).

DIRCM is an integrated system that detects, acquires and tracks IR missiles and is capable of focusing high-power, arc lamp-based countermeasures to defeat the missile. The system is crucial to countering the threat of new-generation infrared missiles not susceptible to current infrared countermeasures. KEO developed optical assemblies through which the high-powered, arc-lamp countermeasures are transmitted.

Northrop Grumman, teamed with BAE SYSTEMS, jointly developed the DIRCM system for the U.K. Ministry of Defense and the US Special Operations Command. The DIRCM equipment was developed by a joint U.K./U.S. team to protect various types of rotary and fixed-wing aircraft from the threat of shoulder-launched heat seeking missiles.

K Systems, Inc., parent company of Kaiser Aerospace and Electronics, was acquired by Rockwell Collins in December 2000. Kaiser Electro-Optics Inc., located in Carlsbad, California, designs and manufactures a wide range of optical products for technically demanding applications in medicine, aerospace and defense. The company's products include sophisticated, head-mounted displays and electro-optical systems.

Rockwell Collins, with headquarters in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, designs, produces, markets and supports communication and aviation electronics for commercial, military and government customers. The business employs approximately 17,500 people worldwide.

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