Rafael Debuts Super Ice – Next-Generation Cruise Missile for Long-Range Precision Strikes
JERUSALEM — Israel’s Rafael has unveiled a new, large-scale cruise missile, dubbed the Super Ice, which the company says will come with a 1,000-pound warhead and is capable of being launched from air, land or sea.
A demonstration video released for media preview showcased the system’s effectiveness against hardened objectives, including fortified bunkers, ballistic missile launch sites, and large naval vessels.
As part of a broader family of cruise missiles, Super Ice stands out due to its substantial size. It closely resembles the dimensions of the American Tomahawk while offering distinct advantages in range and precision.
Rafael Chairman Yuval Steinitz described the weapon as the premier cruise missile of its class, highlighting its capability for long-range, stand-off strikes against high-value targets such as air-defense installations.
Steinitz added, “We remain committed to advancing knowledge and capability, reinforcing Rafael’s leadership in cruise missile technology and its status as a global innovator.” As of press time, operational deployment details remained unspecified.
The system incorporates advanced AI capabilities, maintains a low observable profile, and utilizes high-accuracy image-matching technology. It is designed for low-altitude navigation and can counter electronic warfare challenges while operating in GPS-denied environments, flying at a high sub-sonic speed.
Officials characterized Super Ice as a strategic asset, though specific range details were not provided, noting it surpasses the range of the Sea Breaker and Ice Breaker families. Rafael characterized the system as a fifth-generation cruise missile distinguished by extended range and exceptional accuracy in its November 11 announcement.
The system is MK83 compatible, making it suitable for aircraft such as the F-15, F-16, Tornado, and Typhoon. It shares a common architecture with the Sea and Ice Breaker platforms, enhancing versatility across multiple launcher types.
Rafael emphasized that this shared architecture allows customers to expand operational reach while optimizing Life-Cycle Cost management through existing infrastructure.
CEO Yoav Tourgeman stated the company will continue to lead in advanced technologies, leveraging operational expertise and a deep understanding of modern warfare requirements.
Cruise missiles represent a rapidly expanding global market. Rafael noted the company’s success with previous models, citing $1 billion in orders in 2023 and over 1,000 units shipped by 2024.
Beyond the Super Ice, Rafael produces a diverse portfolio including the Python and Derby air-to-air missiles, the Spike ground-launcher family, the larger Popeye air-to-ground missile, and the Spice family of systems.
