Expendable Countermeasures

Expendable Countermeasures under the Air Force's Procurement of Ammunition, aims to procure and maintain a variety of countermeasure flares and impulse cartridges used by A-10, AC-130, F-15, F-16, C-5, C-17, and F-35/JSF aircraft, as well as HH-53 and HH-60 helicopters. The specific objectives include protecting the warfighter against advanced air-to-air and ground-to-air infrared and heat-seeking attack weapon systems and missiles. The program also ensures appropriate quantities of munitions are maintained in the War Reserve Materiel (WRM) Munitions and test and training stockpiles to meet the needs of the active, Guard, and Reserve components.

The program encompasses the procurement of various countermeasure flares such as MJU-61, MJU-66, MJU-73, MJU-75, and impulse cartridges like BBU-35 and BBU-48. These items are utilized to deploy countermeasure chaff and ignite flares from aircraft dispensers for multiple aircraft. Additionally, the program includes the procurement of chaff rounds for operational and training purposes. The funding allocated for this program in FY2024 supports the purchase of these essential items to ensure the readiness and effectiveness of the Air Force's aircraft fleet in countering advanced missile threats.