Did Israel use guided spike missile? Here's all you need to know about the weapon amid claims of them being fired in Gaza hospital attack
&imwidth=600&imheight=450&format=webp&quality=medium "Did Israel use guided spike missile? Here's all you need to know about the weapon amid claims of them being fired in Gaza hospital attack")
Did Israel use guided spike missile? Photograph: (X (@X/@RAFAELdefense))
The Spike missile family, developed by Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, is regarded as one of the world’s most advanced guided weapon systems
New questions have surfaced over the type of weapon used in the deadly strike on Gaza’s Nasser Hospital, with experts suggesting Israel deployed a guided Spike missile in the attack. Weapons analyst Dheifallah Al-Dabboubi, cited in reports, argued that the destruction pattern at the site was unusually precise, consistent with a guided strike rather than the widespread damage typical of cluster munitions. The concentrated impact suggested a deliberate choice of target.
Human rights observers also studied the trajectory of the munition, observing it originated from the northwest and followed a guided path—matching the known capabilities of the Spike missile family. The Hind Rajab Foundation, which analysed the evidence, went further, accusing the Israeli military of carrying out a calculated “double-tap” strike designed to hit not only the hospital but also medics, first responders, and journalists in the area. Such an action, if confirmed, could constitute a war crime under international law.
What Are Spike Missiles?
The Spike missile family, developed by Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, is among the most advanced guided weapon systems in the world. A prominent model, the Spike LR2, is a fifth-generation, electro-optical, multi-platform missile that can be launched from infantry units, armored vehicles, helicopters, and naval platforms.
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Key Capabilities of the Spike LR2
- Extended range: Up to 5.5 km for ground-launched versions
- Electro-optical guidance: equipped with advanced infrared and day sensors, allowing operators to engage targets in both clear and adverse conditions
- Multiple firing modes: including fire-and-forget, fire-and-observe with in-flight control, and fire-to-coordinates for striking pre-mapped targets
- Warhead versatility: tandem HEAT (high-explosive anti-tank) for armored targets, as well as penetration and airburst modes for fortified structures and personnel
- Resistant to countermeasures: designed to function effectively even against GPS and electronic jamming
- Cross-family compatibility: interchangeable across different Spike variants, which reduces cost and simplifies battlefield logistics
These features make the Spike system highly accurate and lethal, capable of neutralising not just armoured vehicles but also buildings and small, high-value targets. If confirmed, the use of such a system would underline both the precision and the controversy surrounding modern guided weaponry.
