ROCKS is an autonomous extended stand-off range air-to-surface missile developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. Designed to engage high-value stationary and relocatable targets, the missile is particularly effective in GPS-denied environments. It incorporates technologies from Rafael's existing systems such as Popeye and SPICE,[1][2] and uses a Sparrow target missile booster.[3]
| ROCKS Autonomous Extended Stand-Off Range Air-to-Surface Missile | |
|---|---|
| Type | Air-to-surface missile |
| Place of origin | Israel |
| Service history | |
| In service | 2019–present |
| Used by | Israeli Air Force |
| Production history | |
| Designer | Rafael Advanced Defense Systems |
| Manufacturer |
|
| Specifications | |
| Warhead | Penetration or blast fragmentation warhead |
Operational range | Extended stand-off range |
| Maximum speed | Supersonic |
Guidance system | INS/GPS with electro-optical seeker and Anti-Radiation capability |
Launch platform | Combat aircraft |
The missile offers several key features, such as high accuracy with a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of 3 meters, day and night operation in all weather conditions, and resistance to electronic jamming. It is equipped with either a penetration or blast fragmentation warhead and can be deployed well outside of enemy air defense coverage.[1][2]
For navigation and target acquisition, ROCKS uses a combination of inertial navigation system (INS), GPS, and an electro-optical seeker. The terminal guidance employs scene-matching technology or anti-radiation homing to ensure target destruction, even in scenarios where GPS is compromised.[1]
The ROCKS can be launched from an F-16 or F-35.[3]
The missile was first revealed at the 2019 Aero India show in Bangalore.[2]
The Financial Times reported that the missile was possibly used in the 2024 Israeli strikes on Iran.[4]
References
edit- ^ a b c "Rafael ROCKS Autonomous Extended Stand-Off Range Air-to-Surface Missile" (PDF). 2019. Retrieved 19 April 2024.
- ^ a b c "Rafael Unveils New Long-Range Air-To-Surface Missile". IsraelDefense. Arrowmedia Israel. 24 April 2024. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
- ^ a b "Air Weapons: Rampage Rocks". StrategyPage. 19 March 2019. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
- ^ Rathbone, John Paul; Zilber, Neri (19 April 2024). "Military briefing: the Israeli missiles used to strike Iran". Financial Times. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
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