This partnership aims to leverage the expertise and resources of both organizations to adequately evaluate the cutting-edge precision tactical missile systems for better alignment with the U.S Army’s evolving needs for modern warfare
In a significant step towards advancing defense technologies, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd through its U.S based subsidiary Rafael Systems Global Sustainment (RSGS) and the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Aviation and Missile Center (AVMC) have signed a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) to collaborate on the evaluation, future enhancements and Americanization of the SPIKE family of missiles.
The agreement establishes a cooperative relationship between Rafael and the Army ‘s DEVCOM allowing for the exchange of technical expertise, access to facilities, and sharing of intellectual property. This collaboration is expected to accelerate the development of advanced missile technologies, enhance the capabilities of the SPIKE missile system, and ensure its compatibility with the Army’s requirements.
Under the terms of the agreement, Rafael and AVMC will focus on the tactical variants of the SPIKE Family including SPIKE LR2 (5.5km) Long Range Beyond Line of Sight Precision guided missile, SPIKE SR (2km) Short Range shoulder launched Fire & Forget effector, SPIKE ER2 (10km) Extended Range precision guided missile and the close combat SPIKE Firefly battle hardened loitering munition used for urban and counter defilade engagements.
The signing of this CRADA agreement marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen the defense capabilities of both the United States and its allies. By combining the innovative technologies and expertise of Rafael with the extensive research and development capabilities of DEVCOM’s AVMC, this partnership is poised to deliver state-of-the-art missile systems that will enhance the effectiveness and survivability of the U.S. Army.
The SPIKE missile system, known for its versatility and precision, has already been widely adopted by numerous countries around the world including 20 NATO members. This collaboration with DEVCOM is expected to further enhance the U.S Army’s familiarization with these capabilities and ensure its continued lethality in the face of emerging threats.
LTG (Ret) Joe Anderson, CEO of RSGS said: “As the defense landscape continues to evolve, partnerships like this CRADA agreement between Rafael and DEVCOM play a crucial role in driving innovation and ensuring the readiness of the U.S Army. The SPIKE Missiles were selected by 43 different nations and are the basis of lethality for IBCTs and ABCTs all around the world. We see great potential with sharing information with DECVOM to be better prepared for the Army’s requirements such as MOSA, U.S. Qualification and others with the ultimate goal of dramatically enhancing the Army’s tactical forces lethality by allowing the formation to attack beyond line of sight with a ready now, combat proven affordable capability” in order to maintain a strategic advantage and safeguard national security”.
