Rafael Advanced Defense Systems

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Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is a large Israeli state-owned weapons manufacturer that makes missiles, drones, and other weapons systems for the Israeli military. The company's weaponry is directly deployed in the gaza genocide , marking the operational debut of Rafael's newly developed drones, including the Spark and the Orbiter 4 (developed via its subsidiary, Aeronautics), which are utilized for intelligence gathering and directing strikes across Gaza. Furthermore, Matador (RGW 90) shoulder-fired rockets, The rockets are made by German company Dynamit Nobel Defence (DND), a subsidiary of Rafael,, have been used to breach and demolish residential structures. The corporation drew international condemnation in July 2025 following the release of an official promotional video showcasing its Spike Firefly miniature loitering munition. The footage depicted the tracking and targeting of an individual in Gaza, sparking backlash from human rights organizations that accused the company of using the conflict as a commercial testing ground to market its assets as "combat-proven." The company equips the military with advanced missile interception architecture, most notably the Iron Dome and David’s Sling. Additionally, the Trophy Active Protection System (APS) is the linchpin enabling Merkava tanks and Namer APCs to maneuver through urban environments in the Gaza Strip. The system detects and destroys incoming anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and projectiles, protecting armored vehicles during ground operations. Finally, Rafael supplies a comprehensive suite of Spike guided missiles, which are utilized by infantry units, attack helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for targeted operations and striking fortified positions. These missiles are marketed and managed in Europe by EuroSpike GmbH, a Germany-based joint venture between Rafael Advanced Defense Systems (Israel, 20% ownership), Diehl Defence (Germany, 40%), and Rheinmetall Electronics (Germany, 40%).