Wescom Defence has developed Weapon Effect Signature Simulator (WESS) that mimics firing of an actual ManPAD Surface-to-Air Missile by providing a realistic smoke and flash signature. The simulator launches a self-consuming pyrotechnic cartridge vertically creating a continuous, smoke trail from the ground upwards simulating a MANPADS contrail signature, providing a visual stimulation for both the helicopter crew and ground forces.

WESS allows aircrew to train in a more realistic missile engagement environment and improve their ability to detect and counter the threat. This significantly enhances the air crew training experience, heightens situational awareness and has been proven to reduce the reaction time required to deploy counter measures or initiate escape maneuvers.

WESS system is designed to be lightweight and can be carried by one soldier in a backpack, the system is very safe to use and is in service with a number of elite customers around the world including the US DOD.