In a significant enhancement of its aerial combat capabilities, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully acquired the air-launched Israeli Spike Non Line of Sight (NLOS) Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM). These cutting-edge missiles, capable of engaging targets up to 50 kilometers from a helicopter and 32 kilometers from the ground, have been procured from Israel and are destined to be integrated into the fleet of Russian-made Mi-17V5 helicopters, which are manufactured by Kazan Helicopters.
Engineered by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, an Israeli defense company renowned for its technological innovations, the Spike NLOS ATGM boasts various versatile configurations, encompassing man-portable, vehicle-launched, and helicopter-launched variants. A key feature of these missiles is their fire-and-forget system, incorporating lock-on before launch and automatic self-guidance capabilities. Notably, the extended range versions introduce an innovative operational mode termed “Fire, Observe, and Update,” enabling precise and adaptive strikes.
The deployment of air-launched SPIKE NLOS ATGMs augments India’s capacity to execute highly accurate ground strikes from safe distances. Its proven efficacy in inflicting substantial damage on enemy tank formations and effectively impeding their progress underscores its strategic importance. Noteworthy is the missile’s exceptional survivability, attributed to its stand-off range and passive guidance system, which substantially minimizes risk to the launching platform.
The addition of the Spike NLOS ATGMs bolsters India’s ability to address Anti-access/area denial (A2AD) challenges, reinforcing its defense posture. While an initial order for a limited quantity of these advanced missiles has been placed, there is a resolute commitment to further bolster indigenous production through the “Make-in-India” initiative.
Quick Facts:
- Israel Prime Minister: Benjamin Netanyahu
- Israel President: Isaac Herzog
- Israel Capital: Jerusalem
- Israel Currency: New Israeli Shekel (NIS)