After 3.5 years: Rafael unveils hypersonic missile interceptor

Rafael unveils for the first time at the AUSA exhibition in Washington a full-scale model of the 'Sky Sonic' hypersonic missile interceptor, after 3.5 years of development. Alongside it, Iron Dome, David's Sling, and a laser interceptor are displayed. Israel Aerospace Industries unveils the POINT@AIR tactical balloon radar system and HawkGuard interceptor drones. Israeli defense exports broke a record in 2025 with $19.2 billion.

Rafael unveils for the first time at the AUSA land warfare exhibition, which opened in Washington, a full-scale model of the 'Sky Sonic' hypersonic missile interceptor, after 3.5 years of development. The missile is designed to intercept maneuvering hypersonic missiles, which fly at speeds greater than five times the speed of sound and can change course during flight, making them difficult to intercept with existing systems. Rafael revealed the development in June 2023 as a response to the hypersonic missile threat, against the backdrop of Russian use in Ukraine and Iranian boasts. Alongside 'Sky Sonic', Iron Dome, David's Sling, and a laser interceptor are displayed. Israel Aerospace Industries unveils the POINT@AIR system, a tactical radar carried on a balloon for detecting aerial, naval, and ground threats, reminiscent of the 'Tal Shamayim' system but on a tactical and mobile scale. Also displayed are HawkGuard interceptor drones that collide with hostile drones without explosives. Israeli defense exports broke a record in 2025 with $19.2 billion, 13% from North America. Head of the Defense Export Division Yair Koles said that partnerships with American industries will help establish a presence in additional markets.