Advanced Air-Launched Stand-Off Missile
Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is unveiling the Aeropsike – a next-generation, air-to-surface, stand-off, precision-guided missile – at SOFIC 2022. Designed to meet the needs of future complex warfare, Aerospike is light-weight, features high precision (CEP ≤ 3ft), and offers a significant stand-off range of 30km, all while operating in a contested environment, independent of GPS signals.
It incorporates the company’s advanced SPIKE LR2 precision-guided missile technologies, including its dual high-resolution EO/IR seeker, supported by advanced scene-matching technology and detection/tracking capabilities. A real-time datalink allows for seamless man-in-the-loop operation and its advanced lethality features a combination of HEAT and blast fragmentation warheads. The missile’s precision, immunity, and lethality provide a decisive and powerful solution for close air support in call-for-fire, counter-terrorism missions, and to counter A2/AD ‘bubbles’ in full-intensity conflict. It was specially designed for fixed-wing aircraft and allows engagement of both moving and static targets 24/7, including in adverse weather.
The RF datalink enables mid-flight target handover, re-targeting and abort capabilities, while also controlling approach angle, azimuth and flight trajectory. Its simplified operating concept results in low aircrew workload, while the 30strike missions against layered air defences, armoured vehicle formations and urban infrastructure.
“We believe the Aerospike can enhance the precision, lethality, and survivability of future SOCOM AOW [Armed Overwatch] squadrons, providing the Air Force Special Operations Command an advanced tactical CAS [close air support] solution while keeping the warfighter out of harm’s way. Today’s battle arena is saturated with portable air defence threats – like MANPADs – that require CAS elements to operate with greater precision and longer ranges; that is precisely what Aerospike brings to the modern battlefield,” commented Alon Shlomi, Director of Rafael’s Air-to-Surface Directorate.
