Fifth-Generation, Multi-Purpose, Multi-Platform Precision-Guided Missile
At the Paris Air Show in June, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems will launch the SPIKE LR II, a 5th-generation, multi-purpose precision-guided missile capable of being fired from ground-based launchers, vehicles, naval vessels and helicopters.
Leveraging the legacy of the SPIKE missile family, for which Rafael has delivered over 27,000 missiles and system to more than 26 countries, the 12.7kg SPIKE LR II can be fired from any existing SPIKE launcher. Its two warhead options include a tandem HEAT warhead that enhances armour penetration by over 30% and a new multi-purpose blast warhead featuring operator-induced fusing for effect control. With a modern electro-optical seeker incorporating an uncooled IR sensor and an advanced high definition colour day sensor, SPIKE LR II also features a smart target tracker with artificial intelligence capabilities, according to the company.
Range is quoted as 5,500m from ground launchers and up to 10km when fired from a helicopter using an alternative RF datalink option. Designed to defeat modern targets with low signature, time-sensitive characteristics, SPIKE LR II includes an embedded inertial measurement unit for third party target allocation.
“The development of the SPIKE LR II is based on Rafael’s vast experience in the development of a wide variety of missiles over the years, and was largely possible due to Rafael’s close cooperation with the users at the (Israeli Defence Force) and other militaries around the world,” Moshe Elazar, Executive Vice President and Head of Rafael’s Land and Naval Systems Division, explained.
