Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has successfully conducted a live-fire test of its Electronic Warfare (EW) decoy rockets using a standard 130mm launcher. This test confirms the compatibility of Rafael’s decoy munitions with widely deployed 130mm decoy launching systems across global fleets.
Rafael’s EW decoy rockets were originally designed to fit its proprietary fixed launchers and Elbit Systems’ trainable Deseaver launchers. The recent test extends their operational flexibility, ensuring seamless integration with standard 130mm Decoy launchers.
Rafael’s wider EW decoy portfolio includes the operational C-GEM™ and WIZARD™ decoys. C-GEM™ is an off-board active RF decoy designed to counter advanced anti-ship missile threats. C-GEM™ employs a solid-state Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) transmitter with electronic beam steering, providing 360° azimuth coverage. It generates robust, coherent techniques based on advanced Digital Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM) to deceive sophisticated radar seekers. The WIZARD™ is a rapid-response corner reflector decoy that overcomes chaff discrimination capabilities. Deployed as a free-flight, fin-stabilized rocket, WIZARD™ features an encapsulated inflatable frame that forms corner reflectors upon deployment, creating realistic target characteristics to lure radar-guided missiles away from the protected vessel.
These decoys are integral components of Rafael’s Integrated Decoy System (IDS), offering a robust defense suite for naval vessels. The IDS is part of Rafael’s broader portfolio of naval defense solutions, which includes the C-Dome – the naval variant of the Iron Dome air defense system, providing protection against a wide range of aerial threats. Rafael also manufactures the Digital Shark, a Naval Electronic Countermeasure (ECM) system designed to autonomously detect and counter complex radar threats. Digital Shark was recently acquired by a NATO member navy, announced at Euronaval 2024.
Rafael’s decoys are operational on the Israeli Navy’s Saar 6 corvette, further enhancing its capabilities in defending against modern missile threats. This integration illustrates the system’s versatility and its critical role in strengthening Israel’s naval defense infrastructure.
These systems will be showcased at Aero India 2025and NAVDEX 2025, where Rafael, together with its local industry partners and subsidiaries, will demonstrate the evolution of its defense offerings and its continued commitment to providing state-of-the-art solutions for global naval forces.
VP Ran Tavor, Head of Rafael’s Naval Systems Division, commented: “In an era where maritime security threats are evolving rapidly, agility and adaptability are critical. At Rafael, we are committed to developing cutting-edge systems that respond dynamically to the challenges posed by advanced radar and missile technologies. This successful test not only underscores our excellence in creating innovative EW solutions but also demonstrates our ability to integrate seamlessly with existing platforms, ensuring navies remain operationally superior in the face of evolving threats.”
Rafael remains committed to delivering advanced, interoperable defense solutions that enhance the operational capabilities and survivability of naval forces worldwide.
