Spice 2000
The Spice 2000, an Israeli-developed air-to-surface guided bomb introduced in 2003, primarily targets high-value assets and is distinguished by its electro-optical and GPS guidance. Key figures: weight 910 kg, warhead 429 kg, range 60 km, guidance CCD/IR, GPS/INS, DSMAC. In service with 7 countries — Brazil, Colombia, Greece and 4 others.
| Warhead | High-explosive |
| Warhead weight | 429 kg (946 lb) |
| Guidance | CCD/IR, GPS/INS, DSMAC |
| Diameter | 457 mm (18.0 in) |
| Length | 4,720 mm (185.8 in) |
| Weight | 910 kg (2,006 lb) |
| CEP | 3 m |
| Range | 60 km (37 mi) |
Description
The Spice 2000 is an Israeli-developed guidance kit used to convert unguided bombs into precision-guided munitions. The system is a derivative of the guidance technology used in the Popeye air-to-surface missile. It achieved initial operational capability in 2003 with Israeli Air Force F-16 squadrons.
The kit provides multiple guidance options, including satellite-aided navigation, electro-optical homing, and manual command. The guidance system employs Digital Scene Matching Area Correlation (DSMAC) to compare real-time imagery from its seeker against up to 100 pre-programmed target images. If the electro-optical seeker is unable to acquire the target due to visual obstructions or environmental conditions, the munition defaults to GPS/INS guidance. For high-precision strikes, a "man-in-the-loop" mode allows a weapons systems officer to manually steer the munition using a TV or infrared display via a data link. The Spice 2000 is an add-on kit designed for warheads such as the Mk 84, BLU-109, and RAP-2000. It utilizes 12 control surfaces for maneuvers and extended glide flight, allowing launch aircraft to remain outside the range of certain air defense systems.
The system is operated by countries including Israel, India, Greece, Brazil, Colombia, Singapore, and South Korea. Compatible platforms include the F-15, F-16, Mirage 2000, Tornado, FA-50, and F-35. The Indian Air Force used Spice 2000 munitions during a 2019 strike against a training camp near Balakot. The Israeli Air Force deployed the system during the 2021 Israel–Palestine crisis against the Al-Sharouk Tower in Gaza and again during the 2023 Israel–Hezbollah conflict to target a building in Beirut.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of weapon is the Spice 2000?
How much does the Spice 2000 weigh?
How is the Spice 2000 guided?
What is the range of the Spice 2000?
Which countries use the Spice 2000?
- JUL 232026 Updated Sources and cross-references refreshed
- APR 282026 Updated Warhead weight updated
- APR 32026 Updated Spice 2000: length added; Spice 2000: diameter added
- MAR 302026 Created Page created: Spice 2000