Rafael designs a vast array of high-tech defense systems, including air defense systems and missiles to tank protection systems.

When it comes to cutting-edge and unique military-technology complexes, Israel’s defense sector is hard to beat. For decades, the Jewish state’s homegrown products have proved to be innovative and coveted by nations across the globe. In an unsurprising press release, the Israeli-based Rafael Advanced Defense Systems revealed record-breaking sales among weapon systems. The company announced that it saw a staggering 27 percent growth in sales last year compared to 2023. Significantly, nearly half of Rafael’s sales were export-driven.

The manufacturer designs a vast array of high-tech defense systems, ranging from air defense systems and missiles to electronic warfare systems and main battle tank protection applications. While all Rafael products are considered to be top-notch, its most recognizable defense systems are arguably the Trophy active protection system, Iron Dome, Spike missile and incoming Iron Beam high-energy laser system.

Trophy

Although the Israeli-designed Merkava family of tanks is recognized as one of the most lethal main battle tanks (MBT) in service today, even these tried and trusted armored vehicles are not impervious. The Rafael-developed Trophy active protection system serves as a unique countermeasure to anti-tank fire. From anti-tank guided missiles and high explosive tank rounds to anti-tank rockets and other projectiles, the Trophy can protect against all while simultaneously enhancing the Merkava’s ability to target adversarial MBTs and increasing its own crew’s survivability.

Iron Dome

Since Hamas launched its October 7, 2023, massacre against Israel, the Iron Dome defense system has seen a surge in popularity. The unparalleled defense system is effective in thwarting up to 90 percent of incoming projectiles, a crucial capability for a nation surrounded by hostile neighbors. The Iron Dome is designed to intercept and destroy short-range projectiles from a range of 2.5 to 90 miles. Working in coordination with Israel’s other air defense systems like David’s Sling and Arrow, the Iron Dome saves lives every day as Hamas and Hezbollah-launched barrages are directed toward the country.

Spike missile

Like the Merkava family of tanks, Israel’s Spike missile variations are considered to be a staple in the Israel Defense Forces. These fire-and-forget weapons are able to reach targets from up to 30km away while providing their operator the option of changing position post-launch. The Spike has been deployed in combat on many occasions, making it a go-to for the Israeli Army. The Spike’s popularity is validated by its export popularity. Over forty nations have procured the lethal missile system to date and sales continue to increase regularly.

The Iron Beam

Israel’s incoming Iron Beam project makes this once fictionized energy-based weapon concept a reality. The laser missile defense system is expected to be able to take down missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and mortar shells with its twin high-energy fiber-optic lasers. Based on the 1980s U.S. Strategic Defense Initiative formed under the Ronald Reagan administration, the Iron Beam implements some of the program’s studies on new advanced weapons concepts. When the Iron Beam reaches operational service down the line, the unmatched weapon will be envied by most militaries.

About the Author: Maya Carlin

Maya Carlin, National Security Writer with The National Interest, is an analyst with the Center for Security Policy and a former Anna Sobol Levy Fellow at IDC Herzliya in Israel. She has by-lines in many publications, including The National Interest, Jerusalem Post, and Times of Israel. You can follow her on Twitter: @MayaCarlin. Carlin has over 1,000 articles published over the last several years on various defense issues.

Image: Gal_Rotem / Shutterstock.com

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