Context: Recently, the Army is set to place a repeat order for Spike-LR (Long Range) Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM) from Israel as part of emergency procurement.
Key Points

• The decision comes in the backdrop of continuing tensions on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.
• Last year, the Army procured 12 launchers and around 250 missiles from Israel under the new emergency financial powers sanctioned by the Defence Ministry after the Balakot airstrike.
• Emergency Financial Powers: Under these, armed forces have been given a free hand to procure equipment worth up to Rs. 300 crore on a priority basis with deliveries stipulated to be completed in three months but extendable up to six months.
• Entirely new systems not in use were also allowed to be procured under the new powers.

About Spike Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM)

• Spike is an Israeli fire-and-forget 4th generation anti-tank guided missile.
• It was developed and designed by the Israeli company Rafael Advanced Defence Systems.
• It is available in man-portable, vehicle-launched, and helicopter-launched variants.

It includes three versions

• SPIKE-MR (Medium Range): It is a man-portable fire-and-forget missile that can be launched by infantry and special-forces, to accurately strike targets within a 200m to 2,500m range.
• LR (Long Range): It can be launched from a ground-based tripod and light combat vehicles for ranges between 200m and 4,000m.
• ER (Extended Range): It is designed for launch by land vehicles, helicopters and naval platforms to defeat tanks within a range of 8km.