Primary function: Propulsion development, missile systems, guidance and control

Description and activities:
The RAFAEL Armament Development Authority produces advanced interdisciplinary weapon systems for naval, air, and ground forces and operates missile test facilities. RAFAEL cooperates closely with the Israeli Defense Forces as well as providing technology to foreign customers. The Propulsion and Explosive Systems Directorate provides all propulsion, pyrotechnics, and warhead requirements for RAFAEL armament systems purchased by the Israeli government and international customers. Static firings of solid rocket motors are conducted at RAFAEL facilities. The research, development, manufacturing, and testing of solid rocket motors is supported by RAFAEL's Metal Technologies Center. The Rafael operation in Haifa is reportedly the location of a nuclear weapons design laboratory, a missile design development laboratory, and a weapons assembly plant. However, the precise location of the RAFAEL facilities near Haifa is unclear.

Key Sources: GlobalSecurity.org, RAFAEL website

	Updated April 2004