The Gabriel missile pictured will now be one of the Navy’s two main weapon systems. The other main weapon system is naval mines. Photo: Finnish Defence Forces
- Next Article Finland’s homicide rate drops but violence against women persists
The Finnish Navy has officially brought the Israeli-made Gabriel missile system into operational use, replacing its aging Swedish counterpart, Helsingin Sanomat reports.
The system, referred to by the Finnish Defence Forces as Surface-to-Surface Missile 2020, is now one of the Navy’s two primary weapon systems alongside naval mines. The missiles are currently installed on Hamina-class missile boats and will later be deployed on the new Pohjanmaa-class vessels still under construction.
Gabriel missiles can be launched from land-based vehicle platforms as well as naval vessels. The system is capable of striking both enemy surface ships and land targets, with an operational range exceeding 200 kilometres. The missiles are guided using satellite positioning and inertial navigation, with terminal guidance provided by radar.
Produced by Israel Aerospace Industries, the Gabriel replaces a Swedish missile system that will be phased out by the end of this decade.
The Defence Forces’ procurement of Israeli weapon systems has drawn public attention due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. In addition to the Gabriel system, the Navy also uses Euro Spike missiles, which, despite the name, originate from Israel.
The most debated acquisition has been the David’s Sling air defence system, manufactured by Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. The Defence Forces are expected to put it into use by the end of the decade.
HT
- Next Article Finland’s homicide rate drops but violence against women persists
Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
