Israel Integrates Advanced SPICE 1000 Munitions Into F-35 Fighter Jets

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is integrating its SPICE 1000 air-to-surface munition into the F-35 fighter jet for the first time. This integration is expected to be completed within months, enabling Israeli F-35s to deploy the advanced weaponry. The SPICE 1000 is an autonomous munition capable of striking fixed, strategic targets over 120 kilometers away, utilizing an electro-optical seeker with advanced image-matching algorithms.

The munition has been sold to several countries and is operationally used by various air forces globally. It has been a staple in the Israeli Air Force for years, reportedly used extensively in operations in Iran from F-15 and F-16 aircraft, according to Rafael. The integration into the F-35 is a collaborative project between Rafael and Lockheed Martin, taking place at Lockheed Martin's facilities in the United States.

This development is anticipated to allow other nations that have acquired the F-35 to also equip their aircraft with the Israeli-made munition in the future. The SPICE family of munitions, developed by Rafael, includes three types of bombs in different weights and has received the prestigious Israel Security Award. The system was showcased at the AFA 2026 conference, which commenced yesterday.