Vietnam Orders Israeli L-Spike1X Loitering Munitions worth $250M

Vietnam has reportedly signed an agreement valued $250 million with Israeli firm Rafael for L-Spike1X loitering munitions.

According to IsraelDefense.co.il, the deal covers the establishment of a dedicated manufacturing facility for the loitering munitions on Vietnamese soil. The plant will operate under a Rafael license, with knowledge and technology transferred from Israel to a local company that will be tasked to produce the systems.

The L‑Spike1X is a lightweight (2.2kg), man‑portable loitering munition launched from a compact canister by a single soldier. Once launched, it loiters over the target area, transmits real‑time video to the operator, and detonates only after final authorization to strike the target. The system enables precise target identification and allows missions to be aborted or the munition to return to its launch point if battlefield conditions change.

The operational range of the system extends to approximately 5km, depending on terrain characteristics and target type. The munition is electrically powered and designed for short, focused missions, primarily in support of infantry and Special Forces operating in complex combat environments, with an emphasis on dense urban settings.

With a warhead, it can loiter in the air for 15 min and if deployed for only reconnaissance, it can remain in the air for additional 15 min.