Chaff and flares interact with different types of sensors. Chaff creates radar reflections intended to confuse tracking. A defensive flare emits infrared energy intended to draw a heat-seeking threat away from the aircraft.
The cartridge powers the deployment event. The chaff or flare produces the protective effect after release. This makes the cartridge one part of a system that also includes the dispenser, its controls and the countermeasure payload.
Valor manufactures the CCU-145/A within its countermeasure-cartridge portfolio. Its chaff and flare applications describe the cartridge’s role; the specific equipment and configuration determine the manufacturing requirements.
