RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems has developed “Sky Sonic,” an advanced hypersonic missile interceptor, 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 opening next week.
In recent years, the threat posed by hypersonic weapons that can fly in excess of Mach 5 has escalated, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard national security. 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.
The Sky Sonic interceptor represents a major technological leap in hypersonic missile defense. Designed with exceptional maneuverability and high-speed capabilities, the system effectively neutralizes hypersonic missiles, which travel at ten times the speed of sound, with unmatched precision and stealth.
Additionally, the Sky Sonic interceptor has to be able to make the intercept quickly while being certain as to what is the missile’s target destination at any moment.
“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 are developing the most advanced defense systems. Project Sky Sonic is an innovative, unique development of its kind for the hypersonic weapon threat,” said Dr. Yuval Steinitz, Chairman of RAFAEL.
RAFAEL will showcase its various systems at the Paris Air Show. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience firsthand the “Iron Dome” system, the “David’s Sling” system, the “Iron Beam” laser air defense system, as well as advanced features of the “SPIKE” missiles integrated with combat helicopters, and much more.
