ISRAELI WEAPONS-system developer Rafael has produced an upgrade for the Romanian army's Strela surface-to-air missile, providing a night engagement capability and improved target acquisition.

The company responded to a Romanian army requirement and, in a relatively short time, developed a mobile target-acquisition and launching system for the Strela, which is normally shoulder launched.

The weapon is mounted on a light vehicle, and the launcher can carry four missiles. The heart of the system is the electro-optical payload, with a forward-looking infra-red sensor.

The prototype was demonstrated in Romania in mid-September. Sources say that the five missiles launched hit the targets.

Source: Flight International