The Finnish Ministry of Defence has approved the country’s acquisition of David’s Sling from Israel, making it the first foreign customer of the long-range air defense system.
The 316-million-euro ($345-million) move comes just a day after Helsinki was declared the latest member of NATO and amid increasing regional threats.
According to the ministry, the anti-missile system will significantly extend the operational range of Finland’s ground-based air defense capabilities.
The minimum flight altitude requirement of the system was reportedly set at 15,000 meters (49,200 feet).
Additionally, procuring the Israeli-made system will allow the Finnish Defence Forces to intercept targets at high altitudes.
“At the same time, we are continuing the ambitious and long-term development of Finland’s defense capability in a new security environment,” defense minister Antti Kaikkonen said.
Israel’s Rafael will deliver the air defense system to the Nordic nation, while US-based Raytheon will integrate command and control elements.
Lethal ‘Hit-to-Kill’ Solution
Co-produced by Raytheon, the David’s Sling is capable of intercepting enemy rockets and missiles at a maximum range of 300 kilometers (185 miles).
It can reportedly provide an affordable, lethal hit-to-kill solution for a wide variety of asymmetric threats.
The system has a next-generation seeker and a launcher that carries up to 12 stunner interceptors, all launched in a near-vertical orientation.
Since 2017, the David’s Sling has been operational in Israel, making up the middle tier of the country’s multi-layered missile defense.
Ukraine has also requested the Israeli- and US-made anti-missile system, but Jerusalem has thus far declined.
