Spain has decided to cancel a contract for anti-tank missile systems that were to be produced in Madrid by a subsidiary of an Israeli defence firm, as part of a broader move to reduce reliance on Israeli military equipment, the Defence Ministry said on Tuesday.
This cancellation concerns the licence for 168 SPIKE LR2 anti-tank missile systems, a deal valued at approximately 285 million euros. These weapons were set to be developed domestically by Pap Tecnos, a Madrid-based branch of Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defence Systems, according to Spanish media reports.
‘The goal is clear … a total disconnection from Israeli technology,’ said government spokesperson Pilar Alegría (main image) during a press briefing, noting that the government is currently evaluating ‘the effects of the cancellation’. ALSO READ: Spain scraps €6.8m ammunition order from Israeli company after uproar.
The contract agreement had initially received approval on 3 October 2023 – just four days before Hamas-led forces launched a major attack on southern Israel, igniting a destructive conflict in Gaza.
Authorities argued at the time that the systems used by the Spanish forces were obsolete and should be replaced for up-to-date versions like those used by allied armies.
Although Spain’s left-wing administration claims it has also halted weapons exports to Israel, some reports have indicated that limited shipments may still have gone through. ALSO READ: Barcelona court investigates two ship captains over alleged role in arms shipments to Israel.
In May 2024, Spain officially recognised a Palestinian state in a joint initiative with Norway and Ireland. One month later, it became the first European nation to request participation in a case at the International Court of Justice, brought by South Africa, which accuses Israel of committing genocide in Gaza – a charge Israel categorically denies.
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ALSO READ: Spain to present resolution at UN General Assembly to ‘stop killing’ in Gaza.
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