Flares
Dropping flares from a jet to a helicopter is a tactical maneuver that serves a specific purpose in military aviation. Countermeasures Against Heat-Seeking Missiles: Flares are used as countermeasures to defend against heat-seeking surface-to-air or air-to-air missiles that are fired at planes and helicopters. When an enemy missile is launched, it homes in on the heat signature emitted by the aircraft's engines or afterburners. The flares serve as decoys by burning at thousands of degrees Celsius, which is much hotter than the exhaust heat from the aircraft's engines. By deploying flares, the aircraft attempts to divert the missile away from the actual target (the aircraft) and toward the heat source (the flares). How It Works: When a missile is detected, the pilot releases a flare dispenser that ejects several flares. These flares burn brightly, creating a false heat signature that attracts the missile. Ideally, the missile locks onto the flares instead of the aircraft, allowing the aircraft to evade the threat. Safety and Professionalism: The recent incident involving a Chinese fighter jet detonating flares close to an Australian Navy helicopter was deemed unsafe and unprofessional by the Australian Defence Department. The Chinese fighter released flares along the flight path of the Australian helicopter, posing a risk to both the aircraft and personnel. The Australian government expressed its concerns to China, emphasizing the need for professional and safe military operations. Remember, flares…