Countermeasure
A countermeasure is a measure or action taken to counter or offset another one. As a general concept it implies precision, and is any technological or tactical solution or system (often for a military application) designed to prevent an undesirable outcome in the process. The first known use of the term is in 1923.[1]
Countermeasures can refer to the following disciplinary spectrum:
- defense
- medicine
- materials engineering
- electro-magnetic engineering
- policing
- Information technology
- Law
- Diplomatic security
- Pollution prevention
Defense countermeasures are often subdivided into "active" and "passive" countermeasures.
Active
"Active" countermeasures alter the electromagnetic, acoustic or other signature(s) of a target thereby altering the tracking and sensing behavior of an incoming threat (e.g., guided missile) are designated soft-kill measures. Measures that physically counterattack an incoming threat thereby destroying/altering its payload/warhead in such a way that the intended effect on the target is majorly impeded are designated hard-kill measures. Both are further described in active protection systems.
Passive
"Passive" countermeasures include:
See also
- Electronic countermeasures
- Infrared countermeasures
- Flare (countermeasure)
- Anti-aircraft
- Anti-ballistic missile
- National Missile Defense
- Strategic Defense Initiative
- Mine countermeasures
References
- ↑ Meriam-Webster Dictionary "Countermeasure" defined