Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. has unveiled a new version of its Trophy active antitank missile system, which can be installed on light vehicles. The company will display the new Trophy at the Eurosatory 2012 defense exhibition in Paris next week. The new system, which is much lighter and cheaper than the antitank version, aims to provide protect jeeps and other light vehicles in combat, especially in urban areas.
All Merkva Mark IV tanks are now equipped with the Trophy to protect them against antitank rockets and RPGs, after proving its operational effectiveness over a year ago. The system detecting incoming missiles, their trajectory, level of risk, and, if necessary, fires countermeasures to destroy the ordinance at a distance from the tank.
Rafael will also unveil the mini-Spike short range antitank missile, designed to hit targets up to a distance of 1,500 meters. Rafael has been supplying versions of the Spike to Western armies for years. The stat-of-the-art electo-optical multipurpose missile is considered the most accurate missile of its kind. Different versions of the Spike are used by the infantry, or are mounted on vehicles, light ships, and helicopters. The extended range version has a range of up to 25 kilometers.
Rafael will demonstrate both the new mini-Spike and its simulator at the Eurosatory. Sources involved in the mini-Spike's development told "Globes" today that it weighs 4 kg., including the launcher, and is fired by a small remote unit, which also weighs 4 kg., making it possible for two infantrymen to carry the system and six missiles and operate it independently on the battlefield.
Rafael says that, until now, infantry attacking a target a short distance ahead had to use long-range missiles. The mini-Spike is designed to tackle short-range targets. The missile's arc enables it to hit enemy squads concealed behind obstacles or inside structures, by entering through windows.
At the exhibition, Rafael will also present the Iron Dome short-range rocket interceptor, as part of the company's effort to market it to other countries.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on June 6, 2012
© Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd. 2012