RAFAEL to Unveil New Hypersonic Missile Interceptor "SkySonic" at Paris Air Show

Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems said it is working on a brand new interceptor missile called SkySonic geared specifically at the hypersonic threat.

On June 14, Chairman Yuval Steinitz said that while many define any missile which can fly at a speed beyond Mach 10 as “hypersonic,” the new threat that such missiles present is their ability to maneuver and alter their trajectory.

He said that the Sky Sonic defense missile system is “versatile and can hit all hypersonic missiles, flying high or low, maneuvering more or less.”

Watch video of SkySonic interceptor

Rafael plans to show the weapon design off at next week’s Paris Air Show (June 19-25). The SkySonic missile is currently being developed and has not undergone live testing yet.

“Designed with exceptional maneuverability and high-speed capabilities, the SkySonic interceptor effectively neutralizes hypersonic missiles, which travel at ten times the speed of sound, with unmatched precision and stealth,” the company said in a statement.

The multi-stage interceptor, developed for several years in secret, uses a Hit-to-Kill system that Rafael has used in other interceptors. Rafael has presented the project to the United States whose feedback is so far, positive.

The company did not give a range for the interceptor.

Rafael officials stressed that “hypersonic” threats describe missiles that are not merely travelling fast but also involve missiles that glide or maneuver.

“Developing a comprehensive defensive response to hypersonic threats presents numerous complex challenges, including detection and tracking difficulties that necessitate a synchronized sensor system capable of accurately identifying and locating the threat throughout its trajectory,” the company added.