Review of Infrared signature suppression systems using optical blocking method

With rapid advancements in Infra-Red (IR) detection techniques, the range from where the IR-guided missiles are able to lock the target aircraft has increased. To avoid the detection and tracking by modern IR-guided missiles, the aircraft and helicopters also demand progress in its stealth techniques. Hence, study of Infra-Red Signature Suppression (IRSS) systems in aircraft and helicopters has become vital even in design stage. Optical blocking (masking) is one of the effective IRSS techniques used to block the Line-Of-Sight (LOS) of the hot engine parts of the exhaust geometry. This paper reviews the various patents on IR signature suppression systems based on the optical blocking method or a combination of IRSS techniques. The performance penalties generated due to installation of various IRSS methods in aircraft and helicopters are also discussed.