In a decision that had been expected ever since the IAF threw in its lot with the formidable Mi-17 V5 medium-lift multirole helicopter platform, Air HQ has invited interest in arming the chopper with brand new electronic warfare (EW) suites comprising Radar Warning Receiver (RWR), Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) and Counter Measure Dispensing System (CMDS). A limited number from the fleet would also be fitted with a Laser Warning Receiver (LWR) and Directed Infrared Counter Measure (DIRCM). The IAF has stipulated that it wants this to be an Indian system by an Indian vendor. A decision to this effect was expected, given the enormous operational load taken on by the V5s. The integrated EW suite is intended to provide capability of intercepting, identifying, prioritising and displaying airborne and ground based threat from radars and missiles to the pilot and effectively provide self-protection to the helicopter against radar controlled weapon and IR seeking missiles by employing different counter measures (Chaffs, flares, directed infra-red, etc). The Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) is intended to prioritize air to air and ground to air missile threats to the pilot. It should be passive and be able to cue Counter Measure Dispensing System and allow integrated functioning with DIRCM, if required.