Israel conducts trials of new air defense system Spyder AiO
Photo: Israel tests new spyder AiO Air defense system: What makes it unique (rafael.co.il)
The Israeli company Rafael has conducted tests of the Spyder AiO air defense system, according to the company Rafael.
A distinctive feature of the system is that the launcher, radar station, and control point are located on a single platform, allowing for a reduction in the number of vehicles in the anti-aircraft battery. This arrangement provides better deployment and folding capabilities for the system.
During the trials, Spyder AiO demonstrated the operation of all systems and successfully intercepted a drone through direct impact.
"The success in the trials is a crucial milestone in the system's development against various threats and demonstrates its outstanding effectiveness in intercepting complex threats," notes the press service.
The air defense system utilized the Python 5 anti-aircraft missile, developed as a short-range air-to-air missile with an infrared homing seeker.
In particular, Spyder AiO can also employ I-Derby missiles with an active radar seeker, originally developed as a medium-range air-to-air missile.
Israel's war with Hamas
On October 7, Hamas militants invaded Israel, initiating a series of attacks that targeted both military personnel and civilians. The terrorists engaged in acts of killing and abduction. Shortly thereafter, Jerusalem declared the "Operation Iron Swords" and launched strikes on terrorist locations in the Gaza Strip.
A temporary ceasefire for the release of prisoners commenced on November 24 between Jerusalem and the militants, mediated by Qatar. However, on December 1, Israel claimed that hostilities resumed due to Hamas violating the terms of the ceasefire.
Notably, towards the end of the previous year, Israel's Defense Minister, Benny Gantz, warned Hezbollah that the Israeli Defense Forces would take measures to push militants away from the Lebanon border if the attacks did not cease.
