According to recent reports, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has introduced a new 6^th-generation air-to-air missile named Sky Spear. The company asserts that this weapon possesses advanced capabilities that will offer users a significant advantage over their most formidable adversaries.

As per company spokespersons, the Sky Spear missile is specifically designed to enhance the long-range capabilities of aircraft and can be deployed on any fighter jet, regardless of its age or model that is currently in active service.

“With the advent of long-range air to air missiles, the challenges faced by aerial forces have increased exponentially over time. The engagement range has extended longer, and the time gap between launch and end game has created a significant zone of uncertainty,” the company said.

According to Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the Sky Spear missile incorporates a cutting-edge RF seeker and various other advanced technologies. “The Sky Spear missile is designed to engage targets at Long Ranges, ensuring that the opponents are overwhelmed before they have a chance to launch,” the firm says. “Its new RF seeker technology allows for early lock-on, a more accurate end game and substantial leap in EW immunity.”

According to Rafael's retired Brig. Gen. (Res.) Pini Yungman, who serves as the vice-president and Head of the Air and Missile Defense Directorate, the Sky Spear missile represents the latest addition to the company's extensive lineup of air-to-air weapons. He stated in a company statement, "The legacy of Rafael's air-to-air missiles stretches back to our very first development in 1959, with a history encompassing five generations, including the original Shafrir or Python missile." Rafael, known as Israel's government-chartered research and development center for defense products, has consistently showcased previous generations of these missiles at the Paris Air Show.

As per the company’s spokesman, the Sky Spear missile, although not yet operational or sold to foreign nations, is in the final stages of development. The company is actively engaging with major industry leaders worldwide for potential cooperation in the development and production of the missile, as well as identifying potential customers.

Rafael, following the unveiling of the Sky Spear, has also introduced its new concept called Sky Sonic, aimed at intercepting hypersonic missiles. In recent years, the defense firm has made several announcements regarding new missile developments. In 2021, it revealed the Sea Breaker, a sea-skimming 5th generation missile, and in July 2022, it unveiled the 6th generation of its Spike NLOS missile.

Image source: Breaking Defense