David’s Sling to guard Finnish skies
David's Sling pictured during a test firing. (Photo: US DoD)
Finland’s Ministry of Defence has authorised the procurement of David’s Sling, a long-range air defence system from Israel’s Rafael, worth around €316 million.
Finland will procure David’s Sling as its next long-range air defence system, following authorisation from the country’s MoD.
Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems will deliver the system under a deal worth approximately €316 million.
New to the Finnish Defence Forces, the system will allow for the interception of targets at high altitude and continues the defence relationship between the Nordic nation and Israel.
Related Articles
Aeronautics to upgrade Finland’s small UAS fleet as country cements NATO entry
Last year, Finland announced that the Rafael system was one of the final two contenders for its air defence requirements alongside the Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) Barak MX.
A separate agreement will be included in the contract between the Israeli and Finnish ministries of defence to ensure supply security for the system.
No sale of the system can go ahead without a sales release by the US government, as Raytheon co-developed the system with Rafael.
David’s Sling has been in service with the Israel Defense Forces since 2017, forming a part of its multi-layered air defence system.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![Hanwha debuts with US Army deal worth up to $3.6 billion as it eyes future M109 replacement]()
Hanwha debuts with US Army deal worth up to $3.6 billion as it eyes future M109 replacement
The Mobile Tactical Cannon is to replace the US Army’s M777 towed howitzers which could result in the procurement of almost 500 systems at an estimated $3.59 billion.
-
![Rheinmetall advances longer 155mm ordnance with 30% range increase]()
Rheinmetall advances longer 155mm ordnance with 30% range increase
Rheinmetall has begun initial firing trials of a new 155mm/60-calibre artillery ordnance that could deliver up to 30% greater range than its existing 155mm/52-calibre system, as production of the current gun expands across Germany and the UK.
-
![Boxer lands another order as contracts and opportunities build momentum]()
Boxer lands another order as contracts and opportunities build momentum
As Germany prepares its €25 billion order under the Arminius framework – the biggest Boxer procurement to date – the platform could become an increasingly powerful contender in European competitions.
-
![Trans-European iMUGS2 uncrewed systems programme set for three-day exercise in 2028]()
Trans-European iMUGS2 uncrewed systems programme set for three-day exercise in 2028
The next stage of the Integrated Modular Unmanned Ground System (iMUGS) programme, dubbed iMUGS2, was launched in November 2025. Three major demonstrations are planned before the end of 2028.
-
![British Army Land Rover replacement plan inches forward]()
British Army Land Rover replacement plan inches forward
The UK Ministry of Defence has proposed a selection date of May 2027 for the Land Rover replacement requirement, with deliveries expected through to 2036. Next month’s DVD exhibition will be a key shop window for bidders.
