Spain halts Israeli Missile Deal, Plans to Sever Defense Ties Over Gaza

The decision, confirmed by Defense Ministry sources to Spanish news agency EFE, is part of Madrid’s broader effort to "reduce to zero" its technological dependency on Israel over its military operations in Gaza.

Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles’ office also revoked the contract initially awarded in October 2023 to Pap Tecnos, the Spanish subsidiary of Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.

The purchase included 168 launch units, 1,680 Spike LR2 missiles, and full logistical support. The alternative system under consideration is the US-made FGM-148F Javelin, developed by Raytheon and Lockheed Martin.

Although the ministry had previously justified the contract due to the "obsolescence" of Spain’s current missile systems and the technical capacity of Rafael as the sole qualified provider, it has now shifted its stance. The Spike LR2 missile, praised as one of the world’s best for destroying tanks, is said to have been used by Israel in its Gaza offensive, sparking fresh controversy.

The latest move comes just six weeks after Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez ordered the Interior Ministry to unilaterally cancel a separate deal for more than 15 million Israeli-made bullets.

Last week, Secretary of State for Defense Amparo Valcarce said Spain was developing "disconnection plans" to ensure no future reliance on Israeli technology.

Emphasizing that no active arms sales with Israel existed, Valcarce acknowledged that some ongoing programs still relied on Israeli companies, prompting exit strategies.

Kaynak: AA