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Rafael and GD Release Thor in the US

General Dynamics Unleashes Thor in US for Standoff Ordnance Neutralization

26 October 2006 -- General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (GD-OTS), a leading provider of ammunition, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), and ordnance DEMIL products and services has partnered with Rafael Armament Development Authority in Israel to bring a dual mode, standoff ordnance neutralization system into the US.

Thor combines a high-energy laser and M2 12.7mm machine gun on a stabilized weapons pedestal with a remote operator control station and day/night sighting sensors to provide a general purpose, standoff ordnance neutralization capability. Thor provides a wide range of combat utility and freedom of movement capabilities that the maneuver force commander requires. Thor has demonstrated combat effectiveness in operational engagements bringing an additional precision fire gun platform to the fight, while at the same time filling a unique tactical mission role.

Thor is modular, designed for field installation on tactical vehicles and powered by vehicle prime power. The system will be used by military combat engineers and EOD teams to neutralize explosive hazards. The directed energy from the laser is capable of rapidly clearing unexploded ordnance and defeating IEDs by inducing a low-order burning or deflagration reaction in the explosive fill at significant, safe stand-off ranges. The directed energy from the laser may also be used to ignite combustible materials, as a standoff cutting torch, and for other combat purposes. The kinetic energy from the 12.7mm bullet fired by the M2 functions as a standoff disrupter, destroying fuzing, thick-cased munitions and booby traps, also enabling distancing explosive hazards away from the force route. The M2 machine gun ultimately provides accurate, direct fire upon enemy forces and targets in either an offensive or defensive role.

Developed by Rafael Armament Development Authority, Ltd supported by the Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMoD) and the US Anti-Terrorism Technical Support Working Group (TSWG), Thor is now available for sale and integration in the United States by GD-OTS through its teaming agreement with Rafael.

About RAFAEL
RAFAEL designs, develops, manufactures and supplies a wide range of advanced defense systems. These leading edge products include naval, air and ground precision weapons, electro-optic systems, electronic warfare (EW) systems, Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I) systems, acoustic defense systems, armored protection and training systems.
Contact -Mr. Amit Zimmer – Corporate Spokesman – Tel: +972-3-572-4710, amitz@rafael.co.il