Launch customer for CAMPS system
Naturelink Aviation, Saab’s partner in the CAMPS (Civil Aircraft Missile Protection System) programme, will also be the launch customer to integrate the CAMPS system onto their Embraer 120 aircraft.
9/25/2008 | The threat to aircraft from terrorists using Man Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS) is an unfortunate reality in the world today. With the CAMPS system from Saab installed on the aircraft you will have a safer flight. It is estimated there are more than 100,000 of these shoulder-fired heat seeking surface-to-air missile launchers on the black market. Their small size, easy operation and low cost make MANPADS the most serious threat to civil aircraft in the world today. In the last 15 years 35 attempts have been made to shoot down civilian aircraft of which 11 have been prevented.
A breakthrough
- The contract with Naturelink Aviation is a breakthrough on the market and an important step in our CAMPS programme’, says Björn Erman, CEO Saab Avitronics.
Image: Naturelink Aviation will be the launch customer to integrate the CAMPS system onto their Embraer 120 aircraft. Photo by: Matilda Eng.
Saab Avitronics’ countermeasure programs are already installed on military aircraft all over the world and Saab is one of the leading providers of military airborne countermeasure systems in the world. The CAMPS design has a heavy emphasis on safety and minimal operational costs, which led Saab to select pyrophoric technology and electromechanical dispensing.
Meets civilian safety requirements
The system is designed to meet civilian safety requirements and allows for civil certification and is compliant with the Wassenaar agreement. An aircraft equipped with CAMPS has no restrictions when it comes to export regulations. Also, the system is designed for civilian maintenance requirements.
The system meets civilian safety requirements by use of a new type of electromechanical decoy dispenser and a new type of decoy, which detects any missile launched towards the aircraft during take off and landing.
A completely modular solution, CAMPS can be adapted to different aircraft sizes and operational requirements. Being an aircraft manufacturer Saab can provide a one-stop-shop solution to ensure all aspects of installing CAMPS on an aircraft.
Naturelink is a South African company specializing in the provision of charter flights, maintenance, training and contracting to fulfil air transport requirements for humanitarian, freight and VIP transport to aid organisations.