The Israeli David’s Sling air and missile defense Weapon System (DSWS) today successfully completed its fourth and final series of tests (DST-4), the final milestone before the IDF declares it an operational system. The announcement is expected early next year.
The tests examined the capabilities and performance of the entire DSWS. The series included intercepts of multiple threat representative targets by Stunner interceptor missiles in realistic, real-time engagements. During each test, the Multi-Mission Radar (MMR) detected the target after launch and transferred flight information to the Battle Management Center (BMC), which calculated the defense plan. The Stunner interceptor was successfully launched, performed all flight phases, and engaged the target as planned. Preliminary analysis indicates that test objectives were successfully achieved.
Data gathered during the test series is being analyzed by program engineers and will be used for ongoing development and fielding of the DSWS. The test results provide confidence in future Israeli capabilities of defending against large-caliber rockets and other developing threats.
Today’s test was conducted by the system’s developer, Rafael, at a test range in southern Israel, with the participation of the Israel Missile Defense Organization (IMDO), the Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D), and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA).
The prime contractor for the DSWS is Rafael, with Raytheon Missile Systems as a sub-contractor. The MMR was developed by Elta, a subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries. The BMC, known as the Golden Almond, was developed by Elisra, an Elbit subsidiary.
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