The Australian Army and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) are set to acquire the Rafael Spike LR2 missile system under the Lethality System project (Land 159).
The missile system will serve as the army’s Long Range Direct Fire Support Weapon capability and would help it maintain a competitive edge against evolving threats.
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Australian Army chief lieutenant general Rick Burr said: “The Long Range Direct Fire Support Weapon capability will enable our dismounted teams to engage armoured targets faster at an increased range and with improved accuracy.
“New technology and capabilities enable the army to challenge its adversaries in complex, remote and hostile environments. The army must be equipped and always ready to deal with warfare at all ranges, at all times.”
Furthermore, the alignment with the Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle (Land 400 Phase 2) will enable the army to deliver improved operational effects for the ADF in sustainment, training and maintenance.
With the acquisition of the Rafael Spike LR2, the army will be equipped with a modern dismounted anti-armour guided missile system to target contemporary armoured threats.
Additionally, the Australian Army is exploring options to address a Medium Range Direct Fire Support Weapon capability.
In 2022, the army plans to present the weapon to the Australian Government for consideration.
Last month, the Human Performance Research network (HPRnet) awarded a grant to a team from UNSW Art & Design in Australia to help develop new technology to improve the cognitive performance and resilience of troops in the Australian Army.
HPRnet is part of the Defence Science and Technology’s $730m Next Generation Technologies Fund.
