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12 May 16. Rafael unveils Spike SR PBF warhead variant. Key Points:
• New range of 1.5 km declared for Spike SR
• Mini-Spike development discontinued
Rafael Advanced Defence Systems has introduced a new penetration blast fragmentation (PBF) warhead variant for its Spike SR (short-range) shoulder-launched precision-guided munition to equip manoeuvring forces in urban environments with a tactical anti-structure capability.
Spike SR is a platoon-level fire-and-forget, disposable munition – weighing 9.8 kg (launcher and munition) – incorporating a Rafael-designed stiff-necked un-cooled electro-optical (EO) infrared (IR) seeker and advanced tracker (as opposed to the gimballed seeker in the Spike MR/LR/ER systems).
The baseline Spike SR configuration features a tandem high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warhead designed to hit static and moving armoured targets at relevant engagement ranges for a platoon – with minimum engagement of main battle tanks at ranges given as 50 m.
Aviram Levy, Marketing Director for Rafael’s Precision Tactical Weapon Systems Directorate told IHS Jane’s that the new warhead development was designed and funded by Rafael – leveraging the anti-structure warhead technology developed by its subsidiary Dynamit Nobel Defence, RGW-90/Matador – to address a burgeoning requirement for a tactical blast penetration capability for tactical forces operating in urban areas.
“The PFB warhead will breach enemy cover and structure with a lethal blast effect. This was proven during a series of firings conducted the last few months in which Spike SR missiles were launched against walls and structural targets, with successful results,” Levy said.
Levy noted that the PFB warhead variant retains the same weight, length, diameter, and external shape as the HEAT warhead variant.
The original given range for Spike SR was 1,000m, but Rafael is now declaring a maximum range of 1.5km. “When we began development of Spike SR, the objective was for a maximum range of 800 m, although we understood at the time that the inherent capability in the system would allow us to declare a range of 1,000m,” said Levy. (Source: IHS Jane’s)
09 May 16. BAE Systems and Emirates Defense Technology Team Up on M777 Howitzer in the UAE.BAE Systems has signed a teaming agreement with Emirates Defense Technology (EDT) to pursue opportunities for the towed M777 155mm Lightweight Howitzer in the UAE and further explore the development of a self-propelled 155mm artillery system.
“This agreement affirms our desire for an enduring industrial partnership in the UAE,” said Stephen Luk, head of campaign management at BAE Systems. “The M777’s credentials are unmatched by any other 155mm lightweight howitzer. It would provide the UAE Armed Forces with a high quality howitzer that is easy to use and reliable in combat.”
This teaming agreement also offers a platform for BAE Systems and EDT to continue developing the novel 155mm self-propelled artillery concept, which integrates the M777 with EDT’s indigenous Enigma 8×8 Armored Modular Fighting Vehicle.
“EDT is delighted to collaborate with BAE Systems in the UAE for the M777 lightweight howitzer and its vehicle integration programs,” said Colin Rothwell, Group CFO of EDT. “This agreement reinforces EDT’s commitment to partner with the world’s leading military companies to provide the most up to date and proven equipment, technology, and solutions to our clients.”
At half the weight of other 155mm towed howitzers, the M777 provides a rapid reaction capability and a proven pedigree that delivers decisive firepower when needed most in sustained combat conditions. With 1,090 M777s in service with ground forces in the United States, Canada, and Australia, the M777 is the only battle-proven 155mm lightweight howitzer in the world. It will remain at the forefron