The Israeli air force plans to use Rafael-developed micro-satellites to detect surface-to-air missile launches.
It plans to store the satellites at air force bases ready to be launched by rockets carried by Boeing F-15 Eagles during times of tension.
Rafael is developing a version of its Black Sparrow - which is used to simulate the terminal trajectory of a ballistic missile - as a launcher for the 50-80kg (110-180lb) micro satellites.
Maj Gen Dan Halutz, commander of the Israeli air force, says they will be able to deliver a surveillance capability for short periods. The satellites will be inexpensive due to their potentially long storage and short usage periods.
Rafael developed Black Sparrow from the company's AGM-142 Popeye air-to-surface weapon for use in Israel's Arrow anti-tactical ballistic missile programme. The target missile, 4.2m (14ft) long, has a 520mm (20in) diameter, weighs 1,260kg (2,780lb) and can be launched from 42,000ft (13,000m). As a target, the Black Sparrow free falls for 6s before the motor is ignited and burns for 25s. As a launcher the system would be equipped with a larger motor.
Source: Flight International
