ROCKS (missile)

ROCKS is an autonomous extended stand-off range air-to-surface missile developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. Designed to engage high-value stationary and relocatable targets, the missile is particularly effective in GPS-denied environments. It incorporates technologies from Rafael's existing systems such as Popeye and SPICE,[1][2] and uses a Sparrow target missile booster.[3]

ROCKS Autonomous Extended Stand-Off Range Air-to-Surface Missile
TypeAir-to-surface missile
Place of originIsrael
Service history
In service2019–present
Used byIsraeli Air Force
Production history
DesignerRafael Advanced Defense Systems
Manufacturer
  • Rafael Advanced Defense Systems
Specifications
WarheadPenetration or blast fragmentation warhead
Operational
range
Extended stand-off range
Maximum speed Supersonic
Guidance
system
INS/GPS with electro-optical seeker and Anti-Radiation capability
Launch
platform
Combat aircraft

The missile offers several key features, such as high accuracy with a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of 3 meters, day and night operation in all weather conditions, and resistance to electronic jamming. It is equipped with either a penetration or blast fragmentation warhead and can be deployed well outside of enemy air defense coverage.[1][2]

For navigation and target acquisition, ROCKS uses a combination of inertial navigation system (INS), GPS, and an electro-optical seeker. The terminal guidance employs scene-matching technology or anti-radiation homing to ensure target destruction, even in scenarios where GPS is compromised.[1]

The ROCKS can be launched from an F-16 or F-35.[3]

The missile was first revealed at the 2019 Aero India show in Bangalore.[2]

The Financial Times reported that the missile was possibly used in the 2024 Israeli strikes on Iran.[4]

References
  1. "Rafael ROCKS Autonomous Extended Stand-Off Range Air-to-Surface Missile" (PDF). 2019. Retrieved 19 April 2024.
  2. "Rafael Unveils New Long-Range Air-To-Surface Missile". IsraelDefense. Arrowmedia Israel. 24 April 2024. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  3. "Air Weapons: Rampage Rocks". StrategyPage. 19 March 2019. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
  4. Rathbone, John Paul; Zilber, Neri (19 April 2024). "Military briefing: the Israeli missiles used to strike Iran". Financial Times. Retrieved 24 April 2024.
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