Israel's Rafael Armament Development Authority has unveiled a new version of its Spike-ER air-to-surface missile optimised for use in urban or low-intensity operations.
Equipped with a penetration, blast and fragmentation (PBF) warhead, the new variant of the 8km (4.3nm) -range Spike-ER is intended to cause "minimal collateral damage", according to Rafael. Firing trials have demonstrated the warhead's ability to penetrate targets such as armoured vehicles or reinforced buildings before detonating its explosive charge. Rafael says the PBF version of the weapon maintains the earlier design's high level of targeting accuracy.
Up to 16 Spike-ERs can be carried by a Boeing AH-64 Apache, with the design also suitable for firing from armoured vehicles and surface ships.
Source: Flight International
