Infrared threat detection Elix-IR strengthens UK’s airborne threat warning capabilities 

The UK Ministry of Defence is introducing a new generation of infrared-based threat warning systems with Elix-IR, part of the sovereign Team Pellonia initiative. Following recent NATO testing, the system demonstrated its maturity in detecting and supporting the defeat of infrared-guided threats — positioning it as a key component in the UK's airborne self-protection strategy.

As the air threat landscape evolves with the proliferation of man-portable air-defence systems (MANPADS), infrared-guided missiles, and drone-borne weapons, the UK is investing in modernised early warning systems for its airborne platforms. One such development is Elix-IR, an infrared threat warning system (TWS) that was recently showcased during NATO trials and is being integrated under the broader Team Pellonia programme.

Developed in partnership between the UK MOD, Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), the Royal Air Force, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), and industrial partners including Thales UK, Leonardo UK, and Chemring Countermeasures, Elix-IR is designed for use on fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and uncrewed aerial systems. The system uses mid-wave infrared sensors to detect, classify, and track heat signatures associated with missile launches, gunfire, and rocket attacks.

Unlike ultraviolet-based legacy systems, infrared sensors offer improved detection ranges and are better suited to complex and cluttered visual environments. Elix-IR’s algorithmic filtering processes ensure that false alarms are minimised — a crucial factor in maintaining operator trust and system effectiveness during active operations.

Operational integration and live-fire results

Elix-IR is engineered to work in combination with directed infrared countermeasures (DIRCM), such as the Leonardo Miysis system. During recent NATO trials at the Vidsel Test Range in Sweden, Elix-IR supported the successful detection and defeat of multiple infrared-guided missiles fired simultaneously at test aircraft. Paired with Miysis DIRCM, the system achieved full threat detection and jamming accuracy. The trials were observed by NATO defence officials, including the Swedish Chief of Air Force.

This outcome builds on earlier testing, such as the SALT 3 campaign in 2018, and reflects the MOD’s growing emphasis on sovereign, modular, and upgradeable defensive technologies. Stephen McCann, Managing Director of Thales Optronics UK, confirmed that the UK MOD has adopted Elix-IR as its "reference capability" for future threat warning systems.

Broader functions and future use cases

Beyond missile detection, Elix-IR supports full spherical awareness (360°) and can assist with situational awareness in degraded visual environments. The system’s infrared imaging capabilities may also support additional roles such as ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance), drone detection, and collision avoidance in multi-domain operations.

Its architecture is based on a modular open systems approach (MOSA), which enables integration with other defensive systems without extensive redesign. Importantly, Elix-IR is ITAR-free, making it eligible for export without US approval processes — a key advantage for interoperability with European partners.

Although initially designed for aircraft, Elix-IR is being evaluated for adaptation to land vehicles, autonomous platforms, and potentially civil aviation. This reflects a wider trend in defence R&D to pursue dual-use systems with both tactical and strategic applications across domains.