Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has launched a new variant of SPIKE missile with enhanced armour penetration capability.

The new SPIKE LR II missile has two advanced and highly capable warhead configurations, including a Tandem HEAT warhead configuration and a new multipurpose blast warhead.

The Tandem HEAT warhead configuration is said to increase the missile’s enhancing armour penetration capability by more than 30% and the multipurpose blast warhead, which includes controlled fusing (by the gunner), controls the desired effect.

Designed for modern warfare, Rafael’s new advanced multipurpose missile can be launched from any SPIKE launcher, according to the company.

Rafael Land and Naval Systems division executive vice-president and head Moshe Elazar said that the ‘new missile addresses the complex challenges of the modern battlefield’.

"Weighing 12.7kg, SPIKE LR II has a range of 5.5km when fired from ground launchers, and up to 10km when fired from a helicopter."

Weighing 12.7kg, SPIKE LR II has a range of 5.5km when fired from ground launchers, and up to 10km when fired from a helicopter.

Elazar said: "The development of the SPIKE LR II is based on Rafael's vast experience in the development of a wide variety of missiles over the years, and was largely possible due to Rafael's close cooperation with the users at the IDF and other militaries around the world."

In addition, SPIKE LR II features a modern electro-optical seeker, which includes a high-quality un-cooled IR sensor and an advanced high-definition colour day sensor.

The new seeker includes capabilities of a smart target tracker with artificial intelligence features.

SPIKE LR II has the ability to counter new modern targets with low-signature, time-sensitive characteristics. It is said to be one of the only missiles in the world with an inherent CAPS capability.

Rafael plans to showcase the missile at the Paris Air Show in June this year.