Israel's 'Iron Wasp' Tube-Launched Anti-Drone Interceptor Debuts for Armored Vehicle Deployment

Israeli defense technology firms Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and SpearUAV have jointly unveiled their latest counter-UAS solution — the Iron Wasp — a tube-launched interceptor designed for frontline deployment on armored vehicles, enabling rapid engagement of hostile drone threats in complex battlefield environments.

Technical Foundation: Built on the VIPER I Interceptor

The Iron Wasp is reported to be developed on the basis of SpearUAV's VIPER I interceptor. It launches directly from sealed tubes fixed to combat vehicles, requiring no significant platform modifications — substantially lowering the integration barrier. The system features an open architecture, allowing flexible integration of different sensors, warheads, and mission payloads based on operational requirements.

Dual-Phase Guidance for Precision Interception

According to both companies, the Iron Wasp employs radar-guided navigation during the initial phase of flight, before switching to an autonomous terminal guidance system as it closes on the target to achieve precise engagement of enemy drones.

The two companies stated: "The system is designed to provide armored formations with a tactical-level, rapid-response hard-kill capability against UAV threats."

Tube Design Enables Multiple Ready Rounds

The tube-launch design allows a single vehicle to carry multiple interceptors simultaneously. The airframes remain protected inside the sealed launch tubes prior to deployment, extending storage life and improving battlefield reliability. The system is expected to be integrated across a variety of armored fighting vehicles, suited for high-threat, contested environments.

Expanding the VIPER Product Family

The Iron Wasp represents an extension of the existing VIPER series, broadening interceptor capability into vehicle-mounted counter-UAS (C-UAS) missions. It equips frontline units with an organic defensive capability to address the increasingly prevalent threat posed by adversarial drones.

Sources: Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, SpearUAV

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