Despite significant efforts made in past years, the Argentine Army still lacks substantial anti-tank means for its infantry units. Among the latest notable acquisitions in this segment were the Carl Gustaf M4 recoilless rifles and disposable AT4 rocket launchers purchased from Saab. Additionally, the TOW II missile launchers acquired decades ago and used from mobile platforms such as HUMVEE utility vehicles are also listed. However, in line with current conflicts, the Argentine Army does not have a true laser-guided anti-tank missile system (ATGM). Thus, given the multiple re-equipment proposals from Israeli authorities, they have hinted at the possibility of equipping the force with their Spike LR2 missile family developed and manufactured by RAFAEL.
It is no surprise that, thanks to the TAM 2C-A2 Modernization Program, different Israeli companies have been positioned as suppliers of high-tech equipment for the Argentine Army. Besides the modernization of the main combat armored vehicle carried out in cooperation with Elbit Systems, one of the latest significant milestones has been the incorporation of the first batches of HERO loitering munitions provided by Uvision.
With this background, new proposals have been presented to the Argentine Army for the acquisition of equipment to incorporate new capabilities for combat against armored vehicles by infantry units. Despite their sophistication, the M4 and AT4 are weapons for very short-range use by troops, necessitating a system with greater range and guidance.
In response to this situation, representatives of the Israeli military-industrial complex have made an initial proposal based on the provision of Spike LR2 anti-tank missiles, to be incorporated in initial batches to begin a familiarization process and develop the necessary doctrine of use by the Argentine Army. Despite the initial positive reception, this must be evaluated within the necessary feasibility studies, as well as overcoming the country’s difficult economic and financial situation.
Part of the Spike ATGM missile family, RAFAEL presents the Spike LR2 as one of the latest extended-range variants, highlighting its versatility, ease of use, and operational range. While developed for infantry use, it has also demonstrated great adaptability to aerial and ground platforms.
Used by 43 operators worldwide, this version of the Spike has a range of up to ten kilometers, able to engage targets even beyond the operator’s line of sight. RAFAEL officially states: “The missile has multiple operational modes (Fire and Forget, Fire and Observe, and Fire to Target Coordinates), offering unparalleled performance and high lethality. SPIKE LR2 includes a powerful Tandem HEAT warhead that can defeat any current tank, vehicle, or maritime vessel and can be used in urban combat against structural targets in urban environments for the demolition of structures.”
*Photographs used for illustration purposes.
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