- Yes, but the later variant (Python 5 & I-Derby)
- Yes, but the earlier (2005) variant (Python 4 & Derby & EL/M-2106 NG radar)
- Yes, both but individually
- Yes, both but foldered
- None (Explain why)
Suggestion No.71
G’day lads. I want to suggest a high tier SPAA for Israel, which could fit between the MIM-72 and other future additions like the SPYDER-AIO or HVSD/ADAMS, that being the Israeli-Rafael made SPYDER-SR :)
^ Shown above is a SPYDER-SR system from Paris Airshow 2005, carrying Derby and Python 4 (yes, earlier SR variants could indeed have Python 4)
Description:
Spoiler
The Rafael SPYDER-SR is a short-range air defense system designed to counter aerial threats such as aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, drones, cruise missiles, and precision-guided munitions. Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems in collaboration with Israel Aerospace Industries, it utilizes Python 4, Python 5, Derby and I-Derby missiles for interception. Python 4 uses a dual band IR seeker, the Python 5 meanwhile uses a IIR seeker, while Derby relies on active radar homing, as well as the I-Derby, which also has a better seeker compared to the normal Derby. The system is mounted on various truck platforms, however the one I am suggesting is the one presented by Rafael themselves on a Tatra T815 truck. The one shown during 2005 also features a built-in EL/M-2106 NG radar, which just gives it a much quicker reaction time
History:
Spoiler
The SPYDER-SR system was first displayed at the Paris Air Show in 2005. Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems in collaboration with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), it was designed as a quick-reaction, mobile air defense system capable of engaging various aerial threats.
Following its introduction, the system underwent successful test firings in Shdema, Israel, where it demonstrated its ability to intercept targets with Python-5 and Derby missiles. Over the years, the SPYDER-SR has been showcased in multiple military exhibitions worldwide, attracting interest from various nations, leading up to actual customers.
Georgia was the first operator of the system, where they shot down a Su-24 with a Python 4 during the Russo-Georgian war. India became one of the first major operators of the system, awarding Rafael a contract for 18 SPYDER systems in 2008. In 2017, India conducted three rounds of test firings to validate its operational effectiveness. Singapore announced in 2018 that its SPYDER systems had achieved full operational capability.
The SPYDER-SR has seen combat deployments in various conflicts. It was reportedly used by the Indian Air Force during the India-Pakistan border skirmishes in 2019. India has conducted multiple test firings, including three rounds in May 2017, to validate its effectiveness. Vietnam and Peru integrated SPYDER into their air defense strategies following their acquisitions in 2015 and 2012.
Armaments:
Spoiler
Up to 4 missiles can be carried. The coverage is up to 15 to 20km according to Rafael.
Python 5
Python 4 (earlier ones could carry it, had a long research journey to find out))). Something that should be noted is that the Python 4 has the same range as the Python 5, as they are the same missile but with big seeker changes.
I-Derby/Derby (I-Derby is the same as Derby, but with a better seeker and electronics, making it be less distracted by coutermeasures and such)
^ The Derby variant on the video shown is an I-Derby according to Rafael
EL/M-2106 NG built-in radar (2005 variant can be seen carrying it, as seen in the description)
TopLite EOS (Electro-Optical ISR & Targeting System)
Specifications:
Spoiler
Sadly, I cannot find out the exact dimensions and weight of the SPYDER-SR on the Tatra chassis, therefore I will use the data of the Tatra instead. The Tatra T815 has a length ranging from 6.5m to 11m, a width of 2.5m and a height of 3m. Its curb weight varies from 9000kg to 14000kg, with a gross vehicle weight of up to 40000kg. The truck is powered by an air-cooled V12 diesel engine with a displacement of 19 liters, producing between 310hp and 400hp with a torque output of up to 2100Nm. The transmission system offers manual or automatic configurations with 10 forward and 2 reverse gears.
Sources:
Spoiler
Derby Brochure (from early 2000’s)
I-Derby Brochure
https://www.rafael.co.il/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/spyder-family-air-defense-systems.pdf
https://www.rafael.co.il/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/python-Air-to-Air-and-Air-defense-Missile.pdf
https://www.rafael.co.il/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/toplite-eos-family-of-targeting-systems.pdf
https://www.iai.co.il/p/elm-2106ng
Air-to-air missile Derby brochure - Rafael Advanced Defense Systems
SPYDER Surface-to-Air Launcher for Python 5 and Derby Missiles
https://technicalparameters.eu/tatra-815/
https://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/gallery/view.html?b_bbs_id=10044&pn=6722&num=45336 (Archived Version)
Зенитные ракетные системы на базе авиационных средств поражения - Блог "Вестника ПВО" — LiveJournal (Archived Version)
חדשות - צבא וביטחון nrg - ...השלל הרוסי בגיאורגיה: נשק (Archived Version)
Thanks a lot for reading! If you have any extra information, then feel free to share them in the replies! As always, have a good day :)