U.S. Army collaborates on enhanced Israeli Spike missile

In recent months, the U.S. Army has taken strides to enhance its military capabilities by collaborating with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the manufacturer of the acclaimed Spike anti-tank guided missile. The decision comes as part of an effort to modernize and 'Americanize' this advanced weaponry, which has gained a reputation for its effectiveness on the battlefield. The Spike missile, widely considered to be a 'tank killer,' was initially developed during the 1970s, a time when Israel faced significant threats from neighboring countries armed with Soviet-made tanks. The original impetus for creating the Spike missile arose following Israel's experiences during the Yom Kippur War. The conflicts highlighted a critical need for advanced anti-tank weaponry to combat well-armed foes, particularly Syria and Egypt, which were utilizing large numbers of armored vehicles. The Spike missile was designed to utilize sophisticated electro-optical and fiber-optic technology, enabling precision strikes against enemy tanks and strongholds. With a fire-and-forget capability, the operator can effectively engage targets without remaining exposed after the launch, allowing for strategic repositioning. As military technology continues to evolve, the U.S. Army's partnership with Rafael aims to leverage the strengths of both organizations. The agreement intends to develop a new variant of the Spike missile, incorporating American technologies and addressing the specific requirements of modern warfare. The enhanced munition is anticipated to include various future enhancements that align with the U.S. Army's operational needs, in an ever-changing combat environment where precision and effectiveness are paramount. The Spike missile family features several variants, highlighting its adaptability and range. For instance, the medium-range Spike-MR can engage targets at distances up to 2.5 kilometers, while the more advanced Spike-ER2 has an extended range that reaches up to 16 kilometers. Despite being pricier compared to the American FGM-148 Javelin counterpart, international interest in the Spike system remains robust. Its successful combat history and remarkable capabilities solidify its position as a highly regarded weapon system among military experts worldwide.