Evaluation of infrared-signature suppression of ships

Abstract

Reduction of the infrared signature of warships helps to increase their survivability. Two methods to reduce the infrared signature are discussed: the cooling of exhaust gases and the application of low emissivity paint. The infrared signature of a generic frigate has been calculated with and without signature reduction. The signature values are used to determine the lock-on range of four generic infrared seeker heads of anti ship missiles ranging from hot spot seekers to imaging seekers. From the reduction in lock-on range the reduction in hit probability is calculated. The results show that both exhaust gas cooling and low emissivity paint contribute to the survivability of a warship.