Images of a missile that brought down the building in the Tayouneh area on Tuesday have recently spread on social media. It's uncommon to capture footage of a missile in flight just before it strikes. Equally remarkable were the scenes of the building collapsing straight down on itself.
The missile in question is an MK-84, enhanced with wings and fins through the SPICE system, specifically the SPICE 2000. It reportedly struck the load-bearing wall on the front façade of the targeted building, causing a nearly symmetrical collapse.
While some information shared on social media and WhatsApp groups claim this weapon was manufactured in the United States, the truth is more nuanced. The SPICE missile range (Smart, Precise Impact, and Cost-Effective missile guidance system) is a collaborative effort between Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems (RADS) and the American company Lockheed Martin. The partnership initially developed the SPICE 250 missile, later expanding to include the SPICE 1000 and 2000 kits, which enable the integration of SPICE guidance systems with other missiles using advanced AI technology.
These projectiles have the ability to identify and track a target using video footage captured by the missile's head. This system allows operators to adjust the target "up to a few seconds before impact." The SPICE systems are compatible with American fighter jets such as the F-16 and F-35.
The MK-84 missile itself is indeed of American origin, manufactured by General Dynamics’ defense division and supplied in significant quantities to Israel following the large-scale Hamas offensive on October 7, 2023.
The footage shared on social media provides a rare glimpse of the visible path of an Israeli missile during an airstrike. It also highlights Israel's military strategy, which, much like during the 2006 war, relies heavily on technological advances to gain an edge in combat.
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