The Indian Air Force (IAF) has received the Israeli Spike NLOS Missiles which can hit targets from distances up to 30 km.
Moving forward, the IAF will be soon conducting the firing trials of these the Israeli Spike Non Line of Sight (NLOS) Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM), defence sources told ANI.
The NLOS missiles are now going to be integrated with the Russian-origin fleet of Mi-17V5 helicopters which would be able take out targets from long ranges and can prove to be very effective against enemy targets and assets hidden behind mountains or hills.
It is worth mentioning that the IAF had had shown its keen interest in the procurement of these missiles almost two years ago when the Chinese Army deployed a large number of tanks and infantry combat vehicles close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) opposite the Eastern Ladakh sector.
As per the circulating media reports during that time the Spike NLOS Missiles were ordered by India, but in limited numbers.
Now, the IAF would look for getting the missiles in larger numbers through “Make-in-India” initiatives.
The air-launched NLOS ATGMs can carry out strikes at its ground targets from standoff distances and can cause considerable damage to the enemy tank regiments and prevent their advances.
About Spike NLOS Missiles
Spike NLOS is a multi-purpose, electro-optical missile system with a real-time wireless data link for ranges up to 25km. The Spike NLOS weapon system is a member of the world renowned Spike Family.
It provides the gunner with the unique ability to attack targets at stand-off range with no line of sight. The Spike NLOS weapon system can be operated in either direct attack or mid-course navigation based on target coordinates only. These modes enable the defeat of long-range hidden targets with pinpoint precision, damage assessment and the obtaining of real-time intelligence.
The Spike NLOS electro-optical (EO) seeker incorporates a dual sensor capable of effectively engaging targets day and night and in adverse weather conditions.
Spike NLOS can also be supplied with various warheads especially suited to urban and high intensity conflicts (heat, fragmentation, PBF, PBF/F).
The ATGM can be used in a variety of battlefields as a solution for classic high intensity conflict (anti-armor), low intensity asymmetric conflict, and future stand-off battle scenarios (small group, remote/special operations).
Sensors including C4I, UAV and others can be used to provide specific target coordinates. The Spike NLOS can be installed on a variety of air, land and naval platforms providing maximum operational flexibility with low life-cycle cost.
Features
- Mid-course navigation
- Multi-platform mounting
- Variety of warheads
- Lofted trajectory for top attack
- Effective range: 25 km
- Weight – 71 kg
- Missile in canister:
- Mode of operation: Direct attack; Mid-course navigation
- Warheads: Heat, fragmentation, PBF, PBF/F
Source: https://www.rafael.co.il/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Spike-NLOS-1.pdf
