Vietnam Procures Rafael’s L SPIKE1X Loitering Munitions in $250M Defense Deal
The L‑SPIKE1X loitering munition enables real-time target identification and precise strikes, while supporting Vietnam’s push for domestic defense production and advanced battlefield capabilities
Photo: Rafael
Vietnam’s Ministry of Defense has recently signed an agreement with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems to procure SPIKE Firefly loitering munitions (in its newer L‑SPIKE1X variant), known in Israel as “Maoz,” for the Vietnamese Army. According to assessments within the defense industry, the deal is valued at approximately $250 million, making it one of Vietnam’s most significant defense procurement agreements with an Israeli company in recent years.
According to a report by Intelligence Online, the agreement goes beyond the delivery of operational systems and includes the establishment of a dedicated manufacturing facility for the loitering munition on Vietnamese soil. The plant is expected to operate under a Rafael license, with knowledge and technology transferred from Israel to a local company that will be responsible for production. This move aligns with Vietnam’s defense procurement policy, which encourages domestic manufacturing and seeks to reduce reliance on external suppliers.
The L‑SPIKE1X is a lightweight, man‑portable loitering munition launched from a compact canister by a single soldier. Once launched, it loiters over the target area, transmits real‑time video to the operator, and detonates only after final authorization to strike the target. The system enables precise target identification and allows missions to be aborted or the munition to return to its launch point if battlefield conditions change.
According to Rafael, the operational range of the system extends to approximately five kilometers, depending on terrain characteristics and target type. The munition is electrically powered and designed for short, focused missions, primarily in support of infantry and special forces operating in complex combat environments, with an emphasis on dense urban settings.
The system has already entered operational use with the Israel Defense Forces during the fighting in the Gaza Strip since October 7, according to a report by Defense Blog. Its operational track record is considered a significant factor in Vietnam’s procurement decision, as Hanoi seeks to integrate precision‑strike capabilities with proven battlefield effectiveness.
The current deal underscores the deepening defense cooperation between Israel and Vietnam, as Hanoi continues to invest in advanced intelligence‑gathering and precision‑strike systems while integrating local industry and technology transfer as part of a long‑term strategy to strengthen its defense self‑reliance.