Paris Air Show 2025: Elbit unveils PAWS-2 missile approach warning system for aircraft

An artist's rendering showing the PAWS-2 system fitted to an F-16 combat aircraft. (Elbit Systems)

Elbit Systems has unveiled a new missile approach warning system (MAWS) for aircraft, dubbed PAWS-2.

Launched at the Paris Air Show 2025, from 16 to 22 June, PAWS-2 is a high-resolution (HR) MAWS designed to enhance the survivability and operational effectiveness of fixed- and rotary-winged aircraft against both ground- and air-launched threats.

“The PAWS-2 (HR) is a field-proven infrared (IR) passive airborne warning system capable of detecting a wide range of threats, including surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), air-to-air missiles, and manportable air-defence systems (MANPADSs), regardless of seeker type. It provides advanced protection for fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters operating in complex and high-threat environments,” Elbit Systems said.

As noted by the Israeli company, PAWS-2 is built around a “new-generation” mid-wave IR (MWIR) common MAWS sensor with over five megapixels resolution.

“This enables long-range detection, precise launch point geolocation, and early warning for timely countermeasure deployment,” Elbit Systems said, adding that the system's advanced image processing enables extremely low false alarm rates, even in cluttered environments.

Elbit Systems did not disclose if a customer has been secured for PAWS-2.

For more information, please see Elbit Systems to equip Israel's F-16Is with self-protection suite .