US and Israel Conduct Successful Test Launch of David’s Sling Weapon System

Through hit-to-kill technology, the system utilizes an interceptor dubbed the Stunner. The DSWS program began in 2009 when Raytheon received two subcontracts from Rafael worth $100 million. Raytheon assisted prime contractor Rafael with developing the interceptor and missile component, as well as the missile firing unit launch system of the David’s Sling.

The DSWS is meant to integrate with Israel’s broader missile defense initiative which is composed of the Iron Dome, Patriot and the Arrow 1, 2, and 3 systems. The DSWS can be used in both mobile and stationary settings, providing a further layer of coverage in the country’s comprehensive missile defense strategy. The first test of this system was conducted in 2012. After completing the system’s third test, Israeli Defence Minister Moshe Ya’alon stated that he believes the DSWS will be operational within the next year (2016). The system can hold up to 16 missiles at once. Guidance is directed by radar and electro-optical sensors found on the nose of the missiles, which can be retargeted automatically or manually by a command operator. For striking targets, the Stunner missile contains two motor pulses to propel the missile through its mid-course stage and finally a third pulse for thrust once the target is locked on. Using the DSWS is currently quite costly, with estimates totaling up to $1 million USD for a single interception. Israel asked the United States in March 2015 for additional funding of $317 million, allocated solely for missile defense endeavors, on top of the $158 million already sought in the 2016 US federal budget. Via our proprietary website ASAP Purchasing, ASAP Semiconductor is a leading supplier of Raytheon products. Prospective customers can browse our inclusive inventory of hard-to-find obsolete and current Raytheon parts at www.asap-purchasing.com. If you are interested in a part, please feel free to contact our knowledgeable sales staff at sales@asapsemi.com or 1-714-705-4780 for a quote.