RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems Ltd announced that it has developed an advanced interceptor, named “Sky Sonic,” as a groundbreaking defensive response to the growing threat of hypersonic missiles. This revolutionary system will be officially unveiled for the first time at the Paris Air Show, one of the world’s largest aerospace exhibitions, taking place from 19-25 June.
The Sky Sonic interceptor represents a major technological leap in hypersonic missile defense. Designed with exceptional maneuverability and high-speed capabilities, it effectively neutralizes hypersonic missiles, which travel at ten times the speed of sound, with unmatched precision and stealth.
Over the past years, the threat posed by hypersonic missiles has escalated, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard national security. RAFAEL, known for its pioneering contributions in the field of defense systems such as the “Iron Dome,” “David’s Sling,” and the “Iron Beam” laser-based system, is proud to be at the forefront of developing an effective solution to counter hypersonic threats.
Dr. Yuval Steinitz, Chairman of RAFAEL, said: “RAFAEL has identified a marked increase and arousing interest in the international arena with proven operational capabilities and a geopolitical reality that has created many opportunities. We are following the developments and emerging threats in the current security context and developing the most advanced defense systems. Project Sky Sonic is an innovative, unique development of its kind for the hypersonic weapon threat.”
Major General Yoav Har Even, CEO of Rafael added: “We are coming to the air show with RAFAEL’s vast and impressive portfolio that includes systems that are at the forefront of technology. The orders for these systems are breaking records and for the first time we stand on a backlog of orders of over 40 billion NIS (US$ 1.1 billion).”
Brigadier General Pini Yungman, Executive Vice President and Head of the Air Defense Division at Rafael, said: “RAFAEL has achieved a reputation as a leading global manufacturer of air defense systems. From groundbreaking and operationally proven systems like the Iron Dome in its various configurations, to the David's Sling and the SPYDER, we continue to look ahead and develop the next generations of systems to defend against the threats of tomorrow.”
Hypersonic missiles encompass a new family of threats, including hypersonic atmospheric cruise missiles, gliders, and cruisers that travel at incredible speeds while maintaining exceptional accuracy and maneuverability. Unlike ballistic missiles, hypersonic missiles have the ability to change their course mid-flight. Consequently, a successful defense against hypersonic threats requires a multifaceted approach that involves not only countering their speed but also effectively tracking, detecting, and intercepting their unpredictable flight paths.
Developing a comprehensive defensive response to hypersonic threats presents numerous complex challenges, including detection and tracking difficulties that necessitate a synchronized sensor system capable of accurately identifying and locating the threat throughout its trajectory. Furthermore, accurate trajectory prediction demands an interceptor that can swiftly reach the target, minimizing uncertainty associated with target location. Lastly, the interceptor must exhibit exceptional maneuverability and operate on a non-ballistic trajectory to effectively pursue and neutralize the hypersonic threat.
