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Israel’s Ministry of Defense has placed an order for Rafael’s Spike FireFly loitering munition. Jointly developed by Rafael and the Israeli MOD, FireFly weighs only three kilograms and provides behind-cover precision attack capabilities for the dismounted soldier.
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Ordered for the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) ground forces, FireFly was designed for fighting within the urban arena where situational awareness is limited, the enemy is behind cover, and precision is critical.
FireFly is rapidly deployed within seconds. It is portable, durable and includes a rugged airframe to withstand the harsh environment of urban combat. Its single-user operation is designed for the dismounted soldier – light, small and agile.
Firefly features a dual seeker, target tracker, homing algorithms, computer vision, Safe & Arm fusing mechanisms, and a rugged tablet-based HMI (human machine interface).
The operation of FireFly is very intuitive, with no special skills required. FireFly enables overmatch to break combat deadlock and has a lethal effect on stationary and moving targets with or without line-of-sight to the operator.
Dr Ran Gozali, EVP and head of the land and naval division of Rafael, said, “We are very proud of this contract, and we believe the procurement of FireFly by the IDF will dramatically revolutionise the infantry doctrines in urban close-combat, enabling precision engagement for the lower tactical echelons beyond-line-of-sight.
“This will give IDF soldiers a tactical edge in close combat. We see the Firefly as a building block in future potential applications for a large variety of battle arenas.”
FireFly has an abort/wave-off capability and full, safe returnability to the operator up to attack command. It can be operated day and night and has low visual and acoustic signature.
Ido Spitzer, general manager of Rafael Australia, added, “Spike FireFly loitering munition ordered by Israeli MoD will allow VRA, our joint venture company with the Varley Group, to present a state-of-the-art mature and proven system for the future requirements of Project Land 159. We believe that the Spike FireFly will meet all Army needs for an advanced loitering munition under this project.”
Rafael Advanced Defense Systems designs, develops, manufactures and supplies a wide range of high-tech defence systems for air, land, sea, and space applications for the Israel Defense Forces and the Israeli defence establishment, as well as for customers around the world.
The company offers its customers a diversified array of innovative solutions at the leading edge of global technology, from underwater systems through naval, ground and air superiority systems to space systems. Rafael is one of Israel’s three largest defence companies and employs 8,000 people and numerous subcontractors and service suppliers.
Rafael has operated in Australia since 1998 and, through its JV with the Varley group, created Varley Rafael Australia (VRA), which will bring to Australia sovereign capability, export opportunities and investment in innovation and jobs.
