State Dept. approves sale of laser aircraft defense system to Qatar

Sept. 25 (UPI) -- The U.S. State Department has approved the possible sale of two AN/AAQ-24(V)N Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures systems to Qatar for $86 million.

The systems Qatar is interested in buying include 12 guardian laser turret assemblies, seven LAIRCM System Processor Replacements and 23 missile warning sensors, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said Wednesday.

The sale would also include technical and logistics support, and other related elements of logistics and program support.

LAIRCM uses a guided laser to blind the seeker head of infrared-guided missiles, which stops their ability to track down the heat signature of an aircraft. The systems are capable of supporting existing facilities.

The proposed sale would support an ally in the Middle East where the U.S. Central Command forces are based, DSCA said.

Northrop Grumman will be the prime contractor, and the potential sale is not expected to offset any other agreements or adversely affect U.S. defense readiness, according to the agency.

However, U.S. government representatives or contractors in Qatar may provide field service support if needed and requested.

In May, the Department of Defense announced it would also outfit aircraft from Norway and England with the LAIRCM system.