MBDA Saphir-M

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The Saphir-M-System from the defense company MBDA is a decoy system for helicopters. It is used for the Eurocopter Tiger and the NH90 , among others . The installation in the Eurocopter EC635 is being checked.

Structure and functionality

Decoy launcher on the Eurocopter Tiger

The system consists of three components: flare launcher, control unit and control unit.

On the Eurocopter Tiger, two decoy launchers are mounted below the tail boom. The openings point to the side and slightly forward. On both sides of the fuselage of the NH90 behind the door opening of the cabin, two (TGEE: three) projectors are attached, one of which points forward at an angle, the other to the side.

The system has a large number of decoys and can be quickly reloaded on the ground. Three different types of decoys can be used. The entire system is connected to the appropriate sensors, as it reacts fully automatically to threats.

ammunition

Both flares and chaff cartridges can be carried. The number to be carried depends on the size of the decoys:

  • NATO 1 "x1" x8 "decoys (32 decoys per magazine box)
  • NATO 2 "x1" x8 "decoys (32 decoys per magazine box)
  • Ø 19 mm MUCALIR decoys (72 decoys per magazine box)
  • Ø 40 mm decoys (18 decoys per magazine box)

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