Charles Alcock is managing editor of the AIN Media Group, having rejoined the company in 2019. He has been an aviation journalist since 1986, and previously worked for AIN from 1990 to 2017, most recently as editor-in-chief. His main focus is on covering new aviation technology and business models, as well as international news.
Having been raised in the London area, Alcock studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and earned an honors degree in Politics and Modern History. He speaks English and French, and some German.

Managing Editor

Charles Alcock

An undisclosed customer in the Asia-Pacific region has ordered Bird Aerosystems’ Spreos directed infrared camera (DIRCM) to be installed on dozens of military helicopters. On Monday, the company announced what it said was a multi-million-dollar contract following an international tender to protect the rotorcraft from missile threats.
Israel-based Bird said it will work with “a leading local defense company” to initiate local production of a DIRCM configuration for the unspecified helicopter platform. It will supply dozens of the Spreos systems to the program’s prime contractor, which is working for a customer that Matan Perry, v-p of marketing and sales, said is “one of the world’s most advanced militaries.”
The Spreos DIRCM system detects, tracks, and confirms incoming threats to protect against ground-launched missiles. According to Bird, it has a near-zero false-alarm rate and can be integrated with other missile warning systems for mission-critical aircraft platforms.
Beyond the initial supply contract, Bird said the agreement establishes a long-term strategic partnership that will result in local production of the technology and sales opportunities in the region. According to the company, Spreos is one of the world’s most widely deployed helicopter missile-protection systems.
“This contract reflects the strong confidence placed in our advanced technology and proven operational capabilities,” said Ronen Factor, Bird’s co-CEO and founder. “It marks another key step in Bird’s global growth and reinforces our position as a trusted provider of advanced airborne protection solutions. Through our strategic partnership, I am confident this program will pave the way for continued success in the region and open additional opportunities across international markets.”
In addition to missile-protection systems for helicopters, airliners, military transports, and head-of-state aircraft, Bird also makes airborne surveillance, intelligence, and observation technology for maritime and ground surveillance, as well as search-and-rescue, patrol, and monitoring missions. Existing customers include the U.S. government, United Nations air operations, NATO forces, and other defense organizations.
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