Countermeasures systems

The ACMDS dispenser suite is typically controlled via the AN/ALQ-213 EW Management Unit (EWMU) or Defensive Aids Controller (DAC), which provides a reprogramming interface, automatic decision support for the pilot in a threat environment, built-in training capability, and full EW suite control, if desired.

The next generation ACMDS system, which was introduced in 2017, supports many new world leading capabilities:

• Smart Stores Communication Interface (SSCI) – introduction of the coming NATO STANAG 4781 smart stores interface, enables in-flight communication and optimal use of smarts expendables (e.g. Expendable Active Decoy, Hardkill and multi-shot cartridges). The SSCI also ensures automatic expendable type recognition and automatically logs payload logistic information, including air carriage life and use-by-date.
• Improved Mixed Payload Capability – the systems enables a fully user programmable mixed payload capability, which is supported by intuitive programming tools and visual indication on the cockpit displays.
• Additional Safety Features – additional hardware-controlled safety functions to support Weight-On-Wheels (WoW), payload load-out restrictions (e.g. chaff or flare only), installation dependent dispense interval limitations to protect aircraft structure, and configurable discrete dispense inhibits per magazine.
• Third Magazine Support – the Digital Sequencer Switch (DSS) is now available in a new variant, which supports 3 magazines. This enables cost effective solutions for many pylon and pod installations.
• Preplanned Improvements – the ACMDS is prepared for support of 5^th gen aircraft through preplanned improvements via an expansion board supporting Ethernet interface and door controls.

The ACMDS components consist of a series of autonomous line-replaceable units that include

• Digital Sequencer Switch 
• Safety Switch
• Dispenser Assemblies
• Dispenser Magazines
• Retainer Plates.

In addition to the standard Air Force dispenser assemblies, as illustrated below, the ACMDS components have been integrated in applied aerostructures as both scab-on, pylon-mounted, and podded solutions. Examples include:

• F-16 Pylon Integrated Dispenser System (PIDS)
• Modular Aircraft Survivability Equipment (MASE)
• Modular Countermeasures Pod (MCP).

All integrates both ACMDS and a missile warning system.

Benefits

The Terma Advanced Countermeasures Dispenser System (ACMDS) provides a number of benefits compared to other solutions on the market:

• Non-ITAR solution
• Form-fit compatible with legacy Terma and third-party dispenser systems
• Fully in-country organic reprogrammable
• Smart Stores Communication Interface (SSCI) for support of both multi-shot cartridges and expendable active decoys (EAD) 
• Mixed payload capability
• Simultaneous dispense of multiple payloads
• Platform adaptable, hardware-controlled safety features
• Configurable back-up mode, allowing smart dispensing without ACMDS controller
• Programmable firing characteristics, supporting smart and multi-shot payloads
• Synchronous and asynchronous dispense patterns
• Field reprogrammable by end user.

Functionality

The ACMDS system has been installed on +2,500 aircraft worldwide, counting more than +25 different platforms.

The non-ITAR ACMDS system has been combat proven through operational service for more than 25 years with a demonstrated mean time between failure value of >18,000 hours.

The ACMDS includes mixed payload capability within a magazine as well as a Flare-Up modification of the F-16 PIDS pylon, allowing dispensing of pyrophoric flares from pylons on stations 3 and/or 7.

The ACMDS suite includes a full suite of both ground support equipment by means of Dispenser Test Adapters, Payload Simulator & Stray Voltage Tester, and Dispense Program Analyzer as well as a Windows PC based EW Mission Support Tool (EWMST) application for field/in-country organic mission data generation and post-flight analysis.