What are both the IRCM and MWS primarily designed for?

The primary design focus of both Infrared Countermeasure (IRCM) systems and Missile Warning Systems (MWS) is to protect the aircraft from threats, particularly from heat-seeking missiles and other infrared-guided threats.

IRCM systems work by detecting incoming missiles and using countermeasures, such as jamming or decoys, to misdirect these threats away from the aircraft. This proactive approach ensures that the aircraft can avoid potentially life-threatening engagements. Similarly, MWS systems are crucial for early warning, as they detect and identify missile launches, allowing for timely evasive actions or countermeasures to be employed. Both systems are integral to enhancing the survivability of the aircraft, especially in hostile environments.

In contrast, enhancing fuel efficiency, improving passenger comfort, and increasing speed are not the primary goals of IRCM or MWS technologies; those aspects relate more to aircraft design and operational performance rather than specific active protection systems against threats.