Army buying Spike LR2 for dismounted troops

The Australian Army and the wider Australian Defence Force will acquire the Rafael Spike LR2 missile system as its long-range direct-fire-support weapon capability, under Project LAND 159 – Lethality Systems.

CAPTION: Rafael’s Spike LR2 anti-tank missile, now selected by the Australian Army for use by dismounted troops. Image courtesy Rafael.

Chief of Army Lieutenant General Rick Burr said the acquisition of the Spike LR2 system would contribute to the Army maintaining a competitive edge against evolving threats.

“The long-range direct-fire-support weapon capability will enable our dismounted teams to engage armoured targets faster, at increased range, and with improved accuracy,” Lieutenant General Burr said.

“New technology and capabilities enable Army to challenge it’s adversaries in complex, remote and hostile environments.

“Army must be equipped and always ready to deal with warfare at all ranges, at all times.

“The alignment with the Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicle, will also enable Army to deliver improved operational effects for the ADF in sustainment, training and maintenance.”

Defence announced in August 2018 that Rafael’s Spike LR2 missile has been chosen as the anti-tank guided missile that would arm the new Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicle.

Lieutenant General Burr said the [expanded] introduction of Spike LR2 would ensure that Army is equipped with a modern and credible dismounted anti-armour guided missile system to target contemporary armoured threats.

“Army in conjunction with Defence is currently considering options to address a medium-range direct-fire-support weapon capability which will be presented to the Australian government for consideration in 2022.”

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