Fibertek, Inc. and Northrop Grumman Defense Systems Division have developed a mid-infrared laser as an enhancement to the present MIR source in the AN/AAQ-24(V) directional infrared countermeasures (DIRCM) self-projection suite used in fixed and rotary wing aircraft against heat seeking missiles. The laser package allows a simple add-on to the DIRCM system, and is able to provide enhanced protection against newer, more sophisticated missiles. The latest device, which generates more output power in MIR wavelengths, is capable of protecting larger fixed-wing aircraft. The laser uses a diode-pumped, Q-switched Nd:YAG laser to pump optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) that generate the mid- infrared wavelengths. Several versions of the MIR laser transmitter have been built. Some versions generate a single wavelength in the MIR, while others produces up to three MIR wavelengths simultaneously. The lasers measure 25 cm x 10 cm x 5 cm and weigh 1.6 kg. The laser package has passed all flight-level thermal, vibration, and shock tests. Fibertek, Inc. has transferred the MIR technology to Northrop Grumman Laser Systems and production of the systems is underway. See updated links on our News page. Internal research and development efforts are ongoing at Fibertek, Inc. for a new generation of the MIR laser transmitters. Goals of these efforts include increasing MIR output power for increased effectiveness and new applications.