Spyder (SR / MR / LR)
Family of mobile all-weather air defence systems based on Rafael's proven air-to-air missile technology — a unique approach that provides ground-based launchers with the performance of modern air-combat missiles. The Spyder-SR (Short Range) uses Python 5 and Derby missiles on a truck-mounted 360-degree launcher for point defence at ranges up to 20 km. Spyder-MR (Medium Range) extends engagement range to 35 km using the Derby MR. Spyder-LR (Long Range) uses the I-Derby ER missile with a maximum range of 80 km and altitude of 21 km, featuring an AESA seeker for enhanced engagement against low-RCS and manoeuvring targets. All variants feature the IAI Elta EL/M-2084 or EL/M-2106 radar for search and tracking. The Spyder family offers 360-degree engagement, reaction time of 5 seconds, and simultaneous multi-target engagement. Exported to India (MR/LR for IAF and Army), Vietnam, Philippines, Georgia, Czech Republic, and multiple additional customers. One of the most successful air defence export programmes globally.
![Rafael Advanced Defense Systems logo](data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="200" height="60" viewBox="0 0 200 60"><rect width="200" height="60" fill="%23111"/><text x="100" y="38" font-family="Arial" font-weight="bold" font-size="20" fill="%23c8a84b" text-anchor="middle">RAFAEL</text></svg>)
![IAI (Israel Aerospace Industries) logo](data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="200" height="60" viewBox="0 0 200 60"><rect width="200" height="60" fill="%23111"/><text x="100" y="38" font-family="Arial" font-weight="bold" font-size="22" fill="%23c8a84b" text-anchor="middle">IAI</text></svg>)
- Dual-missile concept (IR + RF) provides ECCM resilience
- Python-5 is among the world most agile WVR/short-range missiles
- Rapid deploy/shoot-and-scoot capability
- Wide export base (India, Vietnam, Georgia, Philippines, Czech Republic)
- Limited range compared to Patriot/S-400 class systems
- Small missile magazine (4-8 per launcher) limits sustained engagement
- Derby-ER performance gap vs. AMRAAM-ER and Aster-30
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SIGN INMain gun accuracy at extended range requires stabilization and fire control maturity that few systems achieve.
Active protection system integration at this weight class represents a significant leap in survivability calculus.
Weapons integration breadth gives mission planners flexibility that single-role platforms simply cannot match.
Mobility cross-country is more operationally significant than top speed on paved surfaces. This platform understands that.
Sustained supersonic cruise changes the engagement timeline fundamentally — defenders have less decision time.
Arrow 4
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