Military helicopters operate in high-risk environments where infrared (IR) signature can determine survivability. Heat emitted from engine exhaust systems is one of the primary sources of detection by heat-seeking missiles and infrared tracking systems. OPTEX, through its Applied Optics Center (AOC), provides advanced infrared coating technologies designed to reduce thermal signature and enhance the durability of critical helicopter components.
Helicopter exhaust systems can reach temperatures between 500°C and 900°C, creating a strong infrared signature detectable by modern missile systems. To address this threat, specialized infrared coatings are applied to exhaust system components, including exhaust vanes and thermal management structures.
OPTEX provides infrared coatings designed for these high-temperature aerospace environments, including applications on exhaust vane components used in the Blackhawk helicopter Upturned Exhaust System (UES II). These coatings help reduce emitted infrared radiation, making helicopters more difficult to detect and track.
By managing infrared emissions at the source, these coatings play a critical role in improving aircraft survivability during combat and tactical operations.
Infrared coatings used in helicopter exhaust systems must withstand continuous exposure to extreme heat, vibration, and environmental stress. OPTEX utilizes advanced thin-film coating technologies designed to perform reliably under these demanding conditions.
Key performance benefits include:
These characteristics ensure that coated components maintain performance over extended operational lifecycles.
OPTEX operates specialized coating chambers capable of applying infrared coatings to aerospace-grade materials. The company’s capabilities include:
This infrastructure enables OPTEX to support both prototype development and full-scale production for aerospace and defense programs.
Infrared signature management is a critical element of modern military aviation. By reducing infrared detectability and protecting exhaust system components, OPTEX coatings contribute to improved survivability, reduced maintenance requirements, and reliable aircraft performance.
These coating technologies support a range of defense applications, including:
OPTEX’s infrared coating expertise supports mission-critical aerospace systems, including helicopter exhaust components designed to reduce infrared signature and improve survivability. Through advanced coating technologies and defense-grade manufacturing capabilities, OPTEX provides durable, high-performance infrared coatings that enhance the safety, effectiveness, and operational readiness of military aircraft.
