According to reports from the Israeli press, Georgia has begun receiving Spyder air defence systems from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. (Rafael ADS).
In September 2020, agreements were signed between the Ministry of Defence of Georgia and the major Israeli defence technology companies for a ‘complete overhaul and modernization’ of the Georgian defence forces’ anti-aircraft systems.
As part of these agreements, it was expected that Rafael ADS would work with the Georgian Defence Forces (GDF) to bring the anti-aircraft resources up to the required standards, with Georgian personnel trained in the use of these systems.
Rafael ADS, in collaboration with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), manufactures the Spyder air defence systems, which have gained widespread recognition abroad.
Spyder System Characteristics
The Spyder system provides air defence solutions over various distances and against a variety of aerial threats, including drones, airplanes, helicopters, and even tactical ballistic missiles (TBM).
Spyder can employ Python-5 missiles with infrared and electro-optic imaging guidance, and Derby missiles with active radar homing guidance in the final phase of engagement.
There are several versions of Spyder, with the MR version having a range of over 35 km and capable of engaging targets flying at an altitude of 16 km thanks to Derby-equipped missiles with boosters.
This version comes with an EL/M-2084 Multi Mission Radar (MMR) 3D AESA that operates in the S band, capable of processing up to 1,200 targets in surveillance mode and detecting targets located 250 km away.
Typically, a battery consists of a command and control (C2) center with the radar, up to six launcher vehicles, each with four Python or Derby missiles ready for use, and supply and logistics support vehicles.
Image credit @Rafael Advanced Defence Systems Ltd
