The Philippine Navy has test-fired an Israeli-made Spike non-line-of-sight missile from its newly acquired fast attack interdiction craft.
A target was struck 20 kilometers (12 miles) away during the test, validating the missile’s precision strike capability, the navy said.
The Rafael Advanced Defense Systems missile strikes a target 30 kilometers (18 miles) away, features advanced electro-optical and infrared sensors, and offers day and night operational capabilities.
“Offering unparalleled accuracy and versatility, this new capability represents a leap forward in precision-guided munitions technology,” Philippine Navy Commander John Percie Alcos said.
Fast Attack Interdiction Craft
The test was part of the induction terms of the fast attack interdiction craft, also known as the Acero-class gunboat.
Two of the gunboats arrived in the Philippines from Israel at the end of 2023, while seven more are contracted.
“The test-firing coincided with the nation’s commemoration of the Veterans Week and Day of Valor which added significance to the activity that demonstrated the [Philippine Navy’s] resolve to better fulfill its mandate to uphold and protect our maritime nation’s sovereignty and interests and as a way to honor the valor and keep the legacy of Filipino war veterans,” Alcos added.
The Spike’s short-range version is already operational aboard the Philippines’ Multi-Purpose Assault Craft, offering a range of 4 kilometers (2.48 miles).
