Israel's David's Sling air defense system conducts its first operational interception.
On May 10, 2023, the Israeli Ministry of Defense (MoD) announced that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) carried out the David's Sling Air Defense Missile System's 1st operational interception. The system is designed to intercept enemy planes, drones, tactical ballistic missiles, medium- to long-range rockets, and cruise missiles.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
Each David's Sling launcher carries multiple canistered missiles, which are vertically launched from the vehicle after a target has been detected, tracked, and an engagement solution has been computed by the system's battle management center. (Picture source Israel MoD)
Recently, Finland announced a plan to acquire the Israeli-made David’s Sling air defense system in a €316 million deal. This is the first export contract of the David’s Sling system. The contract includes interceptors, launchers, and radars. While Rafael is the prime contractor, the agreement involves work with IAI’s (Israel Aerospace Industry) Elta subsidiary regarding the multi-mission radar for the system, and also Elbit Systems, which makes the command and control system.
The David's Sling Weapon System, also known as Magic Wand was developed as part of a joint program between the Israel Missile Defense Organization and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency with Israel Aerospace Industries and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.
The David's Sling is capable of intercepting drones, a threat that has grown increasingly relevant due to their compact size and versatility in functions, ranging from reconnaissance to direct attacks. Moreover, David's Sling is equipped to neutralize tactical ballistic missiles, medium- to long-range rockets, and cruise missiles. These threats can be launched from distances spanning 40 km (24.85 miles) to 300 km (186.41 miles), expanding the spectrum of possible attacks that Israel needs to be prepared for.
At the heart of David's Sling is the Stunner Interceptor, a two-stage missile that possesses a dual seeker head. This head is capable of terminal homing using both imaging infrared (IIR) and electro-optical sensors, which allow it to engage targets with a fire-and-forget and hit-to-kill capability. This sophisticated missile is launched from a trailer capable of carrying up to 16 missiles at a time, providing substantial defensive firepower.
The system also includes the Elta EL/M-2084 active electronically scanned array (AESA) multi-mission radar, known for its ability to track multiple targets over great distances. This is complemented by a Battle Management & Weapon Coordination system, developed by Elbit Systems' Elisra, that coordinates the defense against incoming threats and manages the engagement process.
David's Sling operates independently but can also be integrated with other Israeli air defense systems, creating a layered defense. This integration provides a comprehensive and sophisticated shield against a wide array of airborne threats, ensuring maximum protection for Israel's strategic assets and population centers.
