A representative of Rafael Advanced Defense Systems informed MILMAG Editorial Team that the implementation of the Israeli multi-layered air defense system in the Czech Republic is progressing smoothly. Last year, Czech soldiers began training in Israel, and preparations are currently underway to deploy the SPYDER system within the 251st Air Defense Missile Squadron of the 25th Air Defense Missile Regiment, stationed in Strakonice. Additional component deliveries are scheduled through the end of 2025.
Czech launcher of the SPYDER (Surface-to-air PYthon and DERby) short-range mobile air defense system
Each of the four ordered batteries will consist of a radar, four launchers mounted on Tatra chassis, a transport and loading vehicle also on a Tatra chassis, and a command and fire control system. According to the manufacturer, the new air defense system has been configured to optimally meet the requirements of the customer. Thanks to its open architecture, it is designed to be effective against C-RAM threats, various types of aircraft, and short-range tactical ballistic missiles at distances ranging from 15 to 80 kilometers.
ELM-2084 MMR radar in the Czech configuration / Photos: Jakub Link-Lenczowski, MILMAG
The SPYDER system uses surface-to-air missiles: the Python-5, which is dual-band infrared-guided, and the long-range active radar homing I-Derby and I-Derby ER (with a range of up to 100 km). The SPYDER-SR and SPYDER-ER variants are capable of 360° launch angles, enabling rapid response and supporting both Lock-On Before Launch (LOBL) and Lock-On After Launch (LOAL) modes. These features extend the defensive coverage radius to 40 km. The vertically launched SPYDER-MR and SPYDER-LR missiles are capable of intercepting medium- and long-range targets, increasing the defensive radius to up to 80 km.
