AN/ALE-50

The AN/ALE-50 towed decoy acts as a preferential target that lures enemy missiles away from an aircraft by providing a much larger radar cross-section for them to target. It is currently in service with F-16, F/A-18E/F and B-1B aircraft.

The ALE-50 system is made up of a towed decoy, launcher and launch controller. The decoy, together with its towline and payout reel, is packaged in a sealed canister, which has a 10-year shelf life. The launcher, which holds the decoy magazine,...