Israel Explores Low-Cost Cruise Missiles and Defense Systems Abroad
Translated & summarized from Globes by baba
Israel is exploring the purchase of "low-cost" Anthem cruise missiles from US firm Coventor. Peru is considering acquiring IAI's Barak MX air defense system for its new frigates. Meanwhile, Canada is set to deploy Elbit Systems' Hermes 900 drones for Arctic surveillance missions. These developments highlight international interest in Israeli defense technology.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israel is examining the acquisition of "low-cost" Anthem cruise missiles from US company Coventor.
- Peru is interested in purchasing Israel Aerospace Industries' Barak MX air defense system.
- Canada's Coast Guard will operate Elbit Systems' Hermes 900 StarLiner drones in the Arctic.
- Coventor's Anthem missile is designed for mass production, aiming for lower costs.
- The Barak MX system offers various interceptor ranges for comprehensive air defense.
Israel is reportedly considering the acquisition of "low-cost" cruise missiles from the US-based company Coventor, founded by entrepreneur Michael Kaufman. Coventor, which has operations in Israel and Germany, specializes in airborne munitions. The company's flagship product, the Anthem missile, is designed for mass production, making it significantly cheaper than older systems like the Tomahawk. Coventor announced a $250 million funding round in September and has conducted over 200 tests of the Anthem missile, though it has not yet seen operational use.
In a separate development, Peru is reportedly interested in acquiring the Barak MX air defense system from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for its new multi-mission frigates. A delegation from Peru's Ministry of Defense recently visited IAI facilities to assess the integration of the Barak MX, which can be equipped with various radars and launchers to counter threats including aircraft, helicopters, drones, and missiles. The system offers different interceptor ranges, with the LRAD version currently in use on Israel's Sa'ar 6 corvettes.
Additionally, the Canadian Coast Guard is preparing to deploy Elbit Systems' Hermes 900 StarLiner drones for surveillance missions in the Arctic. These medium-altitude, long-endurance drones, capable of operating at ranges of approximately 1,000 km, have been acquired by over 20 customers globally since 2011. Canada purchased its Hermes 900 drones in 2020 for about $36 million each. The drones are undergoing testing in challenging Arctic conditions, including potential operations above the 72nd parallel north.