Facing the Multi-Vessel swarm attack

• This operational gap underscores the need for more sophisticated and automated countermeasures and improved lethality.
• A significant portion of IAI's workforce, including many of its engineers, serve as reservists in the Israeli Navy
• The system’s ballistic computing enhances its effectiveness

Asymmetric warfare presents unique challenges in the modern defense landscape, especially in naval and maritime contexts. Unlike traditional warfare, where adversaries engage in direct and predictable confrontations, asymmetric warfare exploits the vulnerabilities of a more powerful opponent through unconventional tactics. These include guerrilla strategies, cyber-attacks, and notably, multi-vessel swarm attacks. The unpredictability of such tactics necessitates innovative and adaptable defense strategies, particularly in the maritime domain. 

The Growing Threat of Multi-Vessel Swarm Attacks

Multi-vessel swarm attacks are a prominent example of asymmetric threats in naval warfare. This tactic involves numerous small, fast-moving vessels overwhelming larger, more powerful ships. These swarming vessels, often unmanned, exploit their numbers and speed to confuse, saturate, and ultimately breach the defences of a naval asset. Recent conflicts, such as in the Black Sea and in the Red Sea and the attack attempts by Hamas on Israel, highlight the growing relevance of this threat.

Traditional naval defence systems, which rely heavily on guns and manual targeting, often struggle to respond effectively to the saturation and speed of a swarm attack. While advanced optical targeting and stabilized weaponry provide some advantages, they are limited and not designed for systematic engagement with multiple simultaneous threats. This operational gap underscores the need for more sophisticated and automated countermeasures and improved lethality.

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has developed a range of cutting-edge systems to address the challenges posed by multi-vessel swarm attacks and other asymmetric maritime threats. IAI's approach combines advanced detection and targeting, Light and cost-effective missiles to overcome the saturated scenarios and autonomous systems to provide a comprehensive defence solution.

IAI's C4I 

Horizon System: Integrated Coastal and Critical Assets Defense

At the core of IAI’s maritime defense strategy is the Horizon system, an advanced coastal and Critical Assets surveillance and Security management solution. Horizon integrates various sensors and provides a seamless maritime picture, allowing for effective Maritime Security. The system is already operational in multiple countries, providing real-time situational awareness and control in vast maritime areas.

IAI's Sensors

Popstar: Automated Optical Detection

To counter the fast-moving threats posed by swarm attacks, IAI developed the Popstar system. This AI-driven optical detection system autonomously identifies and tracks small vessels, swimmers, and drones, even in complex environments. Popstar’s ability to automatically classify and track multiple targets ensures that defence forces can respond quickly and accurately to any emerging threat.

SeaMOSP: long-range reconnaissance and targeting

The SeaMOSP is a highly stabilized payload designed for naval applications. SeaMOSP is in operational use in naval fleets worldwide, providing high-quality long-range imagery under all-weather conditions. Designed and qualified to withstand the harsh conditions of the sea and coastal environments. The SeaMOSP can be easily connected and integrated into any C4I, and operated with IAI’s in-house control system.

IAI's Effectors

Mini HARPY: Loitering Munition for Persistent Threats

For longer-ranges of up to 100 kilometers and more persistent threats, the Mini HARPY loitering munition offers a formidable solution. Equipped with dual EO/IR and anti-radiation seekers, the Mini HARPY can loiter over an area for extended periods, ready to strike emitting and non-emitting targets. Its long-endurance capabilities make it an ideal choice for dealing with complex and dynamic naval battlefields.

Lahat Missile: Precision Engagement

a laserIAI’s Lahat missile, a laser-guided system, is designed for rapid and precise engagement of multiple targets up to 10 kilometers away. This missile system, which can be deployed on both land and naval platforms, is capable of neutralizing number of vessels in quick succession, providing a vital tool in the defense against swarm attacks.

Point Blank: Versatile Tactical Strike

The Point Blank missile system offers a unique hand-launched solution for ground forces and naval applications. This small, hand launched VTOL-capable missile can hover over targets, providing real-time surveillance and the ability to strike with precision in a 10-kilometer range. Its portability and ease of use make it an ideal solution for special forces and small units operating in multi-dimensional environments.

GFCS: GUN FIRE CONTROL SYSTEM 

The Gun Fire Control System (GFCS) by IAI is another critical component in countering swarm attacks. Integrating IAI AESA, digital multi-beam radar and IAI Electro-optics, GFCS provides precise targeting and fire control for naval artillery, ensuring that even the fastest-moving targets can be effectively neutralized. The system’s ballistic computing enhances its effectiveness, making it a vital tool for modern naval forces.

Katana and APUS 25: Autonomous and Unmanned Solutions

IAI's Katana USV (Unmanned Surface Vessel) system and the APUS 25 long-endurance drone represent the next generation of autonomous maritime defence solutions. The Katana USV offers a versatile platform for ISR missions in coastal, critical assets and shallow water providing unmanned patrol and gunnery capabilities. The APUS 25, with its extended flight endurance and high manoeuvrability, supports long-term surveillance and tactical operations, adding a new dimension to maritime security.

The innovative solutions developed by IAI are deeply rooted in a unique combination of extensive combat and engineering experience. A significant portion of IAI's workforce, including many of its engineers, serve as reservists in the Israeli Navy, bringing real-world challenges from the battlefield directly into the development process. This close connection to operational realities ensures that IAI's products are not only technologically advanced but also field-proven under the most demanding conditions.

IAI’s approach to maritime security, particularly in countering the threat of multi-vessel swarm attacks, blends innovation with practical expertise, continually refining solutions based on feedback from active naval operations. This unique combination of engineering excellence and operational insight ensures that IAI’s products remain at the forefront of maritime defence, providing reliable and effective responses to the evolving challenges of modern asymmetric naval warfare.