Rafael Integrates Advanced SPICE 1000 Missile onto F-35 Jets

Israel's Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is integrating its SPICE 1000 air-to-surface missile onto the F-35 fighter jet. This significant development will eventually allow other nations that have acquired the F-35 to also equip the advanced Israeli munition. The SPICE 1000 is an autonomous weapon capable of striking fixed, strategic targets from over 120 kilometers away. It features an electro-optical seeker that uses advanced image-matching algorithms for precise targeting, even in challenging modern warfare scenarios.

The SPICE 1000 has already been sold to several countries and is in operational use with various air forces globally. It has been a key munition for the Israeli Air Force for years, notably used in operations in Iran from F-15 and F-16 aircraft. The integration onto the F-35 is a joint project between Rafael and Lockheed Martin, taking place at Lockheed Martin's facilities in the United States.

This integration process is expected to conclude within a few months, after which Israeli F-35s will be able to deploy the SPICE 1000. The SPICE family of munitions, developed by Rafael and a recipient of the Israel Defense Prize, includes three types of bombs in different weights, all offering autonomous, precision targeting up to 120 kilometers.