Romania is acquiring Rafael’s SPYDER air defense systems against short- to medium-range aerial threats in a deal worth over 2 billion euros ($2.3 billion).
Contract signing for the initial phase under the full framework agreement comes after the Israeli firm was awarded Romania’s Very Short and Short Range Air Defense (V/SHORAD) acquisition program last year, beating LIG Nex, MBDA, and Diehl Defence from the competition.
The agreement — which Rafael described as the “largest deal in the company’s history” — covers the air defense system, launchers, interceptors, radar systems, training arrays, and logistical support.
Delivery is slated to begin within 36 months of the deal being signed.
“Rafael is honored to sign the largest deal in the company’s history and to provide another NATO nation with an advanced air defense system,” said CEO Yoav Tourgeman.
The deal further builds on their relationship, with Rafael having already supplied SPIKE tactical missiles, electro-optics, and communications systems to the NATO country, and Bucharest being on track to become the first European operator of the Iron Dome air defense system.
SPYDER System
SPYDER is derived from Rafael’s surface-to-air PYTHON and DERBY air-to-air missiles that operate as part of a multi-layered defense concept.
The modular system is designed to intercept several aerial threats, including aircraft, drones, and precision-guided munitions.
Countries that currently use or have ordered the Israeli air defense system include Czechia, Kenya, and the Philippines.
