Rafael Opens Spike Anti-tank Missile Production Facility in Australia

Israeli Rafael in partnership with Australian Varley will open a Spike LR2 anti-tank missile production and assembly facility in Australia.

Varley Australia has partnered with Rafael to deliver Australian production and assembly of Spike missiles. Varley Australia will create a manufacturing facility in Australia, which will provide production and support of Rafael’s new fifth generation Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missile, the company said in a statement.

Varley and Rafael said their partnership will provide LAND 400 Phase 2 with a unique source for local production and sustainment that will last for decades. The companies anticipate the high-level jobs planned for production on Spike LR2 will lead to adjacent opportunities, including the provision of support to future Rafael products such as the Iron Dome’s interceptor Tamir, the Trophy active protection system and more.

Rafael has also opened a missile manufacturing plant in India along with its Indian partner Kalyani Strategic Systems last month. The factory would manufacture Spike anti-tank missiles which are part of half a billion dollar deal with India.

The deal includes 8,000-plus missiles, 300-plus launchers and technology transfer. Further, the deal is likely to expand as the Army aims to equip its 382 infantry battalions and 44 mechanised regiments with new missiles.