According to Iranian media, the assassination of Haniyeh was executed with a "Spike" missile, developed by Rafael and in wide operational use in Israel.
Iranian sources claim that initial investigations by the Revolutionary Guards into the killing of the Hamas political leader suggest that a "Spike" missile was used. This older missile, which has been in operational use in Israel for decades, has undergone numerous upgrades and modifications over the years and is now in its sixth generation.
The Spike is an advanced and sophisticated missile designed for use against tanks, individuals, and buildings. It features several capabilities that make it ideal for such operations.
Firstly, the Spike performs a "cold launch," where the missile is propelled a few meters by a spring or piston before igniting its powerful engines. This element allows the missile to be launched from a window or rooftop without causing damage or leaving traces at the launch site.
Additionally, the missile uses "fire-and-forget" technology, meaning it is launched towards the target and continues to its destination autonomously without further intervention from the operator. This enables the launchers to leave the site even before the missile impacts its target. Iranian networks also claim that the specific missile used in the attack was specially adapted with "infrared targeting" to directly home in on the body heat of individuals inside the apartment.
