Varley Rafael closes in on Spike missile manufacture

Varley Rafael Australia (VRA) is continuing to develop capabilities and the supply chain to support Australian manufacture of the Israeli Spike fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile (pictured).

The company, a joint venture between the Varley Group and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, are contracted by the Commonwealth to deliver Spike LR2 missiles to enable integration and acceptance testing for Australia’s new Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle and Infantry Fighting Vehicle.

VRA’s contract includes the provision of Spike LR2 Mechanical and Outdoor Training rounds and delivery of user training.

VRA is also in contract with the Commonwealth to support the technical certification of the Spike LR2 missile, to enable its introduction into service with the ADF.

VRA CEO Ben Walter said: “This is a major milestone on our proposed roadmap to establish Sike missile manufacturing capability right here in Australia.

“Our proposal to Defence includes manufacturing of inert components and integration, rocket propulsion and warhead systems, hot integration and associated storage requirements.”

Walter said VRA’s proposal aimed to facilitate the production and capabilities of the company’s industry partners and local supply chain.

“(It) will result in the creation of new high‑technology jobs and the upskilling of Australian personnel.

“In this current political environment, a local manufacturing capability would deliver the category‑superior, 5th generation Spike LR2 missile into service faster than extant acquisition approaches”.

Picture: Varley Rafael Australia/Spike missile