Taking Aircraft Safety to the Next Level: Elbit Unveils New Airborne Missile Warning System

Elbit Systems Ltd, a global leader in advanced self-protection and electronic warfare (EW) technologies, will showcase its new and cutting-edge PAWS-2 High Resolution (HR) Missile Warning System (MWS) at the Paris Air Show. Designed to enhance the survivability and operational effectiveness of modern fighter aircraft, the HR sensor will be presented for the first time at the company’s booth, located in Hall 3, Stand B16, within a dedicated EW room featuring some of Elbit’s most advanced electronic warfare solutions.

The PAWS-2 (HR) is a field-proven infrared passive airborne warning system capable of detecting a wide range of threats, including surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), air-to-air missiles, and MANPADS—regardless of seeker type. It provides advanced protection for fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters operating in complex and high-threat environments.

At the core of the system is a new-generation cooled Mid-Wave IR (MWIR) Common-MWS sensor with over 5 megapixels resolution. This enables long-range detection, precise launch point geolocation, and early warning for timely countermeasure deployment. The system’s advanced image processing enables extremely low false alarm rates (FARs), even in cluttered environments.

Key Highlights:

• Extended Detection Range: High-resolution sensors enable earlier threat detection and faster response.
• Low False Alarm Rate: Advanced algorithms improve threat discrimination and reduce operational disruptions.
• Enhanced Threat Separation: High angular accuracy supports better classification and countermeasure timing.
• Expanded Launch Detection: Detects missile launches in the vicinity, distinguishing between direct threats and non-targeted launches.

The system operates at an exceptionally high sampling rate, providing Hostile Fire Indication - detection of small arms bursts, RPGs, and ATGMs – for helicopters.

With the PAWS-2 (HR), Elbit Systems continues to push the boundaries of airborne survivability, delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern air forces.

Elbit Systems will showcase a comprehensive portfolio of advanced aerospace capabilities at the Paris Air Show 2025. Highlights include Autonomous Systems, Airborne and Electronic Warfare (EW) Self-Protection Suites, Airborne Munitions, Intelligence Gathering Systems, Aerial Networking and Mission Communication Solutions, and more.