Introduction

Israeli defense company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is set to showcase its newest innovation — the L-SPIKE 4X Launched Effect — at the upcoming AUSA 2025 Exhibition and Conference in Washington, D.C. (October 13–15). This cutting-edge system represents the latest evolution of the renowned SPIKE missile family, integrating loitering capabilities into a fully developed missile platform for the first time.

Purpose-Built for Modern Battlefields

Unlike traditional drones retrofitted with warheads, the L-SPIKE 4X was designed from the ground up as a missile with loitering capability, specifically engineered for complex and high-threat environments. It merges the speed and accuracy of a precision missile with the persistence of a loitering munition, allowing extended target surveillance before engagement.

Enhanced Range and Multi-Platform Compatibility

The L-SPIKE 4X can engage targets at distances of up to 40 kilometers and is fully compatible with existing SPIKE NLOS launchers. This ensures seamless integration with platforms already in service — including airborne, ground-based, and naval systems — providing military forces with expanded operational flexibility without requiring major hardware changes.

Flexible Warhead Options

Rafael offers two interchangeable warhead configurations for the L-SPIKE 4X:

• Tandem Shaped-Charge: Designed to defeat heavy armor and fortified structures.
• Multi-Purpose Warhead: Suitable for soft targets, vehicles, and personnel in complex terrain.

This modularity allows operators to tailor the system for diverse mission requirements, from counter-armor engagements to precision strikes in urban environments.

The missile’s rocket propulsion system provides two key operational modes:

• High-Speed Attack Mode: Reaches maximum range (40 km) in approximately five minutes.
• Loitering Mode: Can remain airborne for up to 25 minutes, allowing operators to observe, track, and confirm targets before strike authorization.

This versatility enables commanders to adjust tactics in real time, maximizing both efficiency and lethality.

AI-Enhanced Control and Resilience

The L-SPIKE 4X is engineered for modern electronic warfare environments, capable of functioning in GPS-denied or jammed conditions. Its secure communication links and AI-based operator assistance — including automatic target recognition and real-time image processing — reduce operator workload while maintaining precision engagement.

Moreover, the system supports human-in-the-loop control, allowing a single operator to control up to four missiles simultaneously, ensuring that human decision-making remains central to the targeting process. As per the Rafael’s CEO and President, Yoav Turgeman, described the innovation as a milestone for the SPIKE family:

“With the L-SPIKE 4X, we are taking SPIKE missiles to a new level — combining the speed and accuracy of a missile with the endurance of a loitering effect. Compatibility with existing SPIKE NLOS launchers ensures quick and practical integration, expanding operational capabilities in the air, on land, and at sea.”

Evolution of the SPIKE Family

The L-SPIKE 4X builds upon decades of technological evolution within the SPIKE family — a globally recognized series of electro-optical precision-guided missiles. Below is an overview of the earlier SPIKE systems that paved the way for this latest innovation.

SPIKE NLOS (Non-Line-of-Sight)

A long-range precision strike system capable of engaging hidden or beyond-visual-range targets using real-time video guidance. It can be launched from helicopters, vehicles, or ships, delivering pinpoint accuracy at standoff distances exceeding 30 kilometers.

SPIKE ER / ER2 (Extended Range)

Designed for both ground and aerial platforms, the ER and its successor ER2 provide extended engagement ranges up to 16 kilometers, featuring a dual-mode seeker (EO/IR) and a two-way data link that allows mid-flight updates.

SPIKE LR / LR2 (Long Range)

These variants are widely used by infantry and light vehicles. The LR2 features improved range (5.5 km), enhanced optics, and a lighter design. Both versions offer “fire-and-forget” and “fire, observe, and update” capabilities.

SPIKE MR / SR (Medium & Short Range)

Compact and portable, these systems are ideal for infantry units requiring quick deployment. The SR variant is optimized for close combat up to 2 kilometers, providing high precision against moving or static targets.

SPIKE Firefly (Mini Loitering Munition)

Also known as “MAOZ”, the Firefly represents Rafael’s first venture into loitering precision munitions. Designed for urban warfare, it allows soldiers to scout and engage threats behind cover. The L-SPIKE 4X extends this loitering philosophy into the larger, multi-platform missile domain.

Aero SPIKE

A specialized air-launched variant developed for precision strikes from aircraft. With glide-assisted wings and advanced seekers, AeroSPIKE enables longer-range engagements from high altitudes, complementing other air-to-ground strike assets.

Conclusion: A Hybrid for the Future Battlefield

The L-SPIKE 4X represents a new hybrid class of weapon — bridging the gap between guided missiles and loitering munitions. It provides rapid response, persistent surveillance, and precision engagement all in one platform. Its integration with existing launch systems ensures a cost-effective and operationally flexible solution for modern armed forces.

With this development, Rafael continues to expand the SPIKE family’s reputation for modularity, precision, and adaptability — maintaining its position among the world’s leading tactical missile systems.