Rafael is developing downsized versions of some of its weapon systems for use with unmanned air systems, with its efforts being aimed at the international market.
Sources indicate that the work is being spurred by the growing use of armed UAS for various types of missions flown around the world, with the weapons to be available for use by medium and large UAS.
Israel has never revealed any programme to arm its unmanned air vehicles, although foreign sources have claimed that its UAS have performed "surgical" attacks on targets inside the Gaza Strip.
Rafael has developed advanced weapon systems including the Python-5 and Derby air-to-air missiles, Spice bomb guidance kit and Spike air-to-surface missile.
The company has previously downsized its Reccelite tactical reconnaissance pod for use with unmanned aircraft. Its Recce-U system is available in two versions, which are suitable for carriage by large platforms such as the Israel Aerospace Industries Heron, and by smaller vehicles, respectively.
Source: Flight International