Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) is modifying the Arrow 2 anti-ballistic missile system to counter the latest Scud-D ballistic missile, which is in service with Syria.
An Israeli source says the Scud-D, which Syria acquired from North Korea, has a booster that separates from the missile warhead in the final trajectory phase. This creates two separate targets and could confuse the Arrow 2's terminal phase electro-optical sensor.
To counter the potential problem, IAI is modifying the Arrow missile's software and hardware.
Meanwhile, the Israeli air force is upgrading its missile test facility at the Palmachim airbase, the centre of Arrow missile trials.
Palmachim is on Israel's Mediterranean coastline, 16km (10 miles) south of Tel Aviv. A $180 million upgrade includes replacement of some sensors and modification of the site's communications system.
A consultancy is also evaluating the construction of a sea-based launch pad or other expansion possibilities. A sea-based pad could be on a man-made island or a specially built dock.
Sikorsky CH-53-2000s operated by the Israeli air force for special missions have been equipped with an in-flight electronic warfare simulator (IFEWS), developed by Elisra subsidiary BVR. The IFEWS generates ground and airborne threats through the helicopter's electronic warfare system. The air force believes the capability will improve aircrews' abilities to operate in air defence system-saturated areas.Source: Flight International
