Army buying Spike LR2 for dismounted troops

The Australian Army and the wider Australian Defence Force will acquire the Rafael Spike LR2 missile system as its long-range direct-fire-support weapon capability, under Project LAND 159 – Lethality Systems.

CAPTION: Rafael’s Spike LR2 anti-tank missile, now selected by the Australian Army for use by dismounted troops. Image courtesy Rafael.

Chief of Army Lieutenant General Rick Burr said the acquisition of the Spike LR2 system would contribute to the Army maintaining a competitive edge against evolving threats.

“The long-range direct-fire-support weapon capability will enable our dismounted teams to engage armoured targets faster, at increased range, and with improved accuracy,” Lieutenant General Burr said.

“New technology and capabilities enable Army to challenge it’s adversaries in complex, remote and hostile environments.

“Army must be equipped and always ready to deal with warfare at all ranges, at all times.

“The alignment with the Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicle, will also enable Army to deliver improved operational effects for the ADF in sustainment, training and maintenance.”

Defence announced in August 2018 that Rafael’s Spike LR2 missile has been chosen as the anti-tank guided missile that would arm the new Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicle.

Lieutenant General Burr said the [expanded] introduction of Spike LR2 would ensure that Army is equipped with a modern and credible dismounted anti-armour guided missile system to target contemporary armoured threats.

“Army in conjunction with Defence is currently considering options to address a medium-range direct-fire-support weapon capability which will be presented to the Australian government for consideration in 2022.”

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Range

5.5km

Round Weight

~13kg

Launcher weight

12kg

Length

117cm

Guidance

Dual Modern Electro-optical Missile seeker with both un-cooled IIR sensor /High Quality day sensor

Data link

Fiber optic or RF

Warhead variety

Tandem HEAT
Smart-fuse-controlled multipurpose warhead

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Posted by Brian Hartigan

Managing Editor Contact Publishing Pty Ltd PO Box 3091 Minnamurra NSW 2533 AUSTRALIA

3 thoughts on “Army buying Spike LR2 for dismounted troops

  • 09/02/2020 at 11:09 am
    Permalink

    So can I assume the Cav Scouts from Reserve units will be trained to use this new equipment and conduct at least a couple of live fires!

    Reply
    • 10/02/2020 at 3:12 pm
      Permalink

      Of course Trevor. It will replace your current regular Javelin training and live firing.

      Reply

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