BIRD Aerosystems

BIRD Aerosystems, founded in 2001, operates as a specialized developer of airborne missile protection and surveillance systems for a global client base that includes military, governmental, and commercial entities. The company was established by Ronen Factor, David Dragucki, and Zahi Ben Ari, all of whom leveraged extensive experience from their service in the Israeli Air Force as pilots and senior program managers. Their collective expertise in avionics, airborne weapon systems, and complex operational requirements has been a foundational element of the company's strategy and product development. Co-founders Ronen Factor and David Dragucki currently lead the company as Co-CEOs.

The company's business model is centered on providing comprehensive, turnkey solutions that encompass operational analysis, system design, integration, installation, testing, and certification. This end-to-end approach extends to aviation logistics, maintenance, and repair services, positioning the firm as a single-source provider. Revenue is generated through contracts for these integrated systems and follow-on support services. A significant milestone was the 2018 investment by FIMI Opportunity Funds, which acquired a 50% stake in the company to support its continued growth.

BIRD Aerosystems' offerings are divided into two main product lines: the Airborne Missile Protection System (AMPS) and the Airborne Surveillance, Information, and Observation (ASIO) solution. The AMPS family is designed to protect aircraft from a range of surface-to-air missiles by detecting, confirming, and neutralizing threats. A key component is the patented SPREOS (Self Protection Radar Electro-Optic System), a Directional Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) that combines a radar-based confirmation sensor with an active laser jammer to verify and track threats, virtually eliminating false alarms. The system is available in various configurations, including the AeroShield pod, which is designed for discreet installation on both military and VIP aircraft. The ASIO solution is a customizable intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) system for maritime and ground surveillance, search and rescue, and border patrol. It integrates multiple sensors with a sophisticated mission management system (MSIS) to provide real-time situational awareness across airborne, naval, and ground units from a unified command center. The company has secured numerous contracts with clients such as NATO forces, UN Air Operations, the US Government, and various air forces and VIP transport fleets worldwide.

Keywords: airborne missile protection, airborne surveillance, DIRCM, SPREOS, AMPS, ASIO, special mission aircraft, ISR solutions, countermeasure systems, avionics integration, man-portable air-defense systems, electronic warfare, missile approach warning, maritime patrol, ground surveillance, aviation logistics, military aircraft protection, VIP aircraft security, defense systems, threat detection, laser jamming