Spike (missile)

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Spike

SPIKE ATGM launcher with mock-up missile
Type Manportable fire-and-forget anti-tank missile
Place of origin Israel
Service history
In service 1997 - Present
Used by See operators
Wars Second Intifada, 2006 Lebanon War
Production history
Designed 1987
Manufacturer Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd.
Produced 1997 - Present
Variants See Versions
Specifications
Weight Missile in canister: 33 kg
Launcher: 55 kg
Launcher + 4 missiles: 187 kg
Tripod: 3 kg
Length 167 cm (Missile w/launcher)
Diameter 17 cm (Missile w/launcher)
Rate of fire Ready to launch in 30 seconds, reload in 15 seconds
Maximum range 800 - 8,000 meters, depending on version
Sights 10x optical sight
Warhead Tandem-charged HEAT warhead
Detonation
mechanism		 Impact force
Engine Solid-fuel rocket
Guidance
system		 Infrared homing - Electro Optical (CCD, IR or Dual CCD/IIR), Passive CCD or dual CCD/IIR seeker

Spike is a third generation anti-tank guided missile developed by the Israeli company Rafael.

Contents

[edit] Overview

Israeli Soldier With Gil type Spike Launcher
Israeli Soldier With Gil type Spike Launcher

Spike is a fire-and-forget missile with lock-on before launch and automatic self-guidance. The missile is equipped with an imaging infrared seeker. The long , extended and medium range versions of the Spike also has the capability of Fire, Observe and Update operating mode, by the use of fiber-optical wire that is spooled between the launch position and the missile. This allows the operator to lock onto a target if the target is not in the line of sight of the operator, switch targets, or compensate for the movement of the target if the missile is not tracking the target for some reason. Furthermore, the missile could also be used for simple observation on the other side of the hill and maybe engage a target of opportunity. The tandem warhead is fitted with two shaped charges, a precursor warhead to detonate any explosive reactive armor and a primary warhead to penetrate base armor. It is replacing aging second generation anti-tank missiles like the MILAN and Dragon in many armies. The missile has a soft launch capability which allows the missile to be fired from confined spaces, which is a necessity in urban warfare.

[edit] Components

Spike is broken down into two separate systems: a launching tripod / fire control unit, and the missile itself. Together, the system weighs, in the long range variant, around 26 kg. Weight savings are achieved by Spike through the elimination of a dedicated thermal sight, as the system uses the missile's imaging seeker for target acquisition.

The purchasing and operating costs of the system are relatively low compared to similar systems. By using "good enough" solutions, the system can offer high quality without gold plating. Missile capabilities are almost similar to those of many modern high-end ATGMs.

Spike can be operated by infantry teams from the launching tripod, or from standard mounts designed for fast attack vehicles, utility vehicles and APCs. This allows vehicles that are normally not equipped with anti tank weapons to have some form of anti-tank capability. Furthermore, Spike has been trialled as a weapon system for the SAGEM Sperwer UAV.

[edit] Marketing

In order to ease the selling of the weapon system in Europe, the company EuroSpike GmbH was formed in Germany. Its shareholders Diehl BGT Defence (40%), RDE (40%) and Rafael via ERCAS B.V (20%). ERCAS B.V. is a Dutch holding company owned 100% by Rafael. EuroSpike GmbH is located in Röthenbach, Germany. The Spike weapon system differs a little from the Israeli version and is then marketed under the name STN Atlas EuroSpike.

[edit] Versions

Cut away diagram of Spike ATGM.
Cut away diagram of Spike ATGM.
  • Spike-SR is the short range version of the weapon. It has a range of some 800 meters and is intended for infantry use.
  • Spike-MR (also know as Gil) is the medium range version. Its range is 2,500 meters and is used by infantry and special forces
  • Spike-LR is the long range version. It has a range of 4,000 meters and is used by infantry and light combat vehicles
  • Spike-ER is the extended range or extra long range version of the weapon. It was formerly also known as the NT-Dandy or NT-D. It has a range of 8,000 meters. It has a larger diameter and is heavier than the other systems, and is usually vehicle mounted. It is used by infantry, LCVs, and helicopters. The Finnish army also operates the version in the anti-ship role.

[edit] Operators

[edit] Comparable systems

[edit] External links