Rafael Plasan Sandcat Mk.3 Spike System - Fire-and-Forget Prowler

Surbaissemaxxing · April 16, 2025, 4:00pm

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Suggestion No.73

G’day lads. I want to suggest an ATGM carrier for Israel, which fires Spike NLOS missiles (like the Pereh), whose launching system carries 4 of them and 6 additional ones for reserve on a Plasan Sandcat Mk.3 chassis :)

Description:

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The Spike NLOS is a highly advanced electro-optical/infrared guided missile system developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, designed for long-range precision strikes with a reach of up to 25 km. Its man-in-the-loop control system allows operators to adjust or abort the mission in real time using a video feed, making it particularly effective against concealed or moving targets. The missile’s fire-and-update capability enables tracking, redirection, or switching targets after launch, ensuring maximum accuracy. The Plasan SandCat, in its third-generation version, is a light armored vehicle designed by Plasan, an Israeli defense company specializing in armored vehicles. Built on a Ford F-Series chassis, it offers high mobility, protection, and adaptability. It is well-suited for urban warfare, reconnaissance, and combat missions. Its advanced armor combines steel, ceramic, and Kevlar for resilience against multiple threats, while an optional remote weapon station enhances its firepower.

History:

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The Spike NLOS missile was developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems in the late 1970s as part of Israel’s efforts to enhance its long-range precision strike capabilities. Initially classified, the system entered service with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in 1981 and remained a secret for decades. It was designed to provide beyond-line-of-sight engagement, allowing operators to track and adjust the missile mid-flight. Over time, the Spike NLOS evolved through multiple generations, incorporating advanced electro-optical guidance and extended range, eventually reaching 25 km. The missile was publicly acknowledged in 2011, and since then, it has been widely adopted by various militaries, including the U.S. Army, which made it as an addition to the Long-Range Precision Munition program.

The Plasan SandCat was first designed in 2004 by Plasan, which was made by an Israeli defense company, who specialize in armored vehicles. The vehicle was publicly unveiled at AUSA in October 2005, showcasing its lightweight yet highly protective design. Built on a Ford F-Series chassis, the SandCat was initially developed as a potential replacement for the AIL Storm jeeps used by the IDF. The design emphasized modularity and adaptability, allowing it to serve in combat, patrol, and internal security roles. Over the years, the SandCat underwent several upgrades, leading to the third- and fourth-generation model, which introduced enhanced armor, improved mobility, and increased payload capacity.

As far as I know, the only countries who used this exact system with the Spike NLOS system was Rafael themselves while displaying and South Korea, who got them in 2013. The system was shown 2010 during an expo (unsure which one exactly) and DSEi 2013.

Armaments:

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Spike NLOS (4 ready, 6 reserve), 25-32km according to Rafael

Also something important; it doesn’t look like that the launcher always has to point left, as on the Spike Family brochure it is shown to point right too

TopLite EOS (Electro-Optical ISR & Targeting System)

Datalink (on the right)

Specifications:

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The dimensions of the Plasan SandCat 3rd Generation are approximately 5.6m in length, 2.5m in height, and 2.0m in width, with a wheelbase of about 4.4m and a ground clearance of roughly 0.3m. The weight specifications include a curb weight of 7000kg, a payload capacity of 2000kg, and a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 9000kg. The vehicle is powered by a Ford 6.7L V8 Power Stroke Turbo-Diesel engine, producing around 300hp with a torque output of approximately 700 ft-lb. It has a fuel tank capacity of 150 liters, providing an estimated operational range of 600km.