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.