New Delhi: Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has said that its cutting-edge ICE BREAKER precision-guided missile system can also be seamlessly integrated onto the Indian Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) ‘Prachand’.
Talking to idrw.org, Israel’s premier defense technology company said that the missiles significantly enhanced the helicopter’s offensive capabilities. According to RAFAEL officials, a feasibility study has been successfully conducted to assess compatibility with helicopter platforms.
While the IAF has already received the ICE BREAKER as part of a broader weapons offering from RAFAEL, sources in the Indian Air Force have told idrw.org that a formal decision on its induction is yet to be taken.
Here are some of the key features of ICE BREAKER:
- The ICE BREAKER is a long-range, autonomous, multi-platform missile system
- The Ice Breaker is designed to engage high-value land and naval targets with precision and survivability.
- It weights approximately 400 kg
- The missile is exceptionally lightweight for its class and boasts a range of 300 km, making it suitable for fighter jets like the Rafale and MiG-29K
- It is also suitable for rotary-wing platforms such as the LCH and future Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH).
Meanwhile, the Indian Navy too has been offered the ICE BREAKER for its carrier-based fleet of MiG-29K and Rafale M fighters, expanding the potential for cross-service interoperability of the weapon.
The ICE BREAKER’s state-of-the-art electro-optical and GPS guidance systems enable precise targeting even in GPS-denied environments. Its ability to launch multi-directional attacks allows it to effectively engage both moving maritime targets and fortified land-based infrastructure. This capability would greatly enhance the operational effectiveness of the LCH in high-threat areas like the Line of Actual Control (LAC), where long-range standoff strikes with minimal exposure are critical for mission success.