/en en /en/electronic-warfare-self-protection-systems-helicopters <p>Military helicopters are carrying out their missions in various and very often complex operational environments. They are facing a wide range of threats and rely on their manoeuvrability and armour but above all on their self-protection system to survive.&nbsp;</p> 24 Jun 2021 2739104 /sites/default/files/database/assets/images/2021-06/Cockpit%20NH90%20with%20TopOwl_Photo%20E.RAZ%20thumbnail.png /en/worldwide/defence/magazine/electronic-warfare-cornerstone-platform-survivability <p>The aircrew has been briefed, the mission is clear: the helicopter is to fly deep into enemy territory to provide air support for ground troops in a sticky situation. As the crew straps in and prepares for take-off, they know they'll be flying into the unknown. Despite the detailed intelligence gathered beforehand, there's no knowing what they'll encounter: enemy surveillance systems may have been redeployed, short-range missile systems and rocket launchers may have been concealed behind terrain features, or a makeshift drone could be flown into the helicopter. The helicopter's self-protection system needs to perform in order to guarantee the mission success and bring them back to base safe and sound.</p> 25 Jun 2021 2739098 /sites/default/files/database/assets/images/2021-06/Cockpit%20NH90%20with%20TopOwl_Photo%20E.RAZ%20thumbnail.png