The system is capable of intercepting rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) mid-flight.
By Hezy Laing
Israel’s TROPHY active protection system (APS), developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, is widely regarded as one of the most effective tank defense technologies in the world, capable of intercepting rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) mid-flight.
Known in Hebrew as Me’il Ruach (“Windbreaker”), TROPHY was first deployed operationally in 2011 on the IDF’s Merkava Mark 4 tanks.
It uses the EL/M-2133 AESA radar to detect incoming threats and launches countermeasures within milliseconds, neutralizing projectiles before impact.
The system has proven its effectiveness in multiple combat scenarios, including Operation Protective Edge in 2014 and the 2024 Gaza War, where it intercepted dozens of RPGs and ATGMs aimed at Israeli armor.
During one engagement, a Merkava crew reported TROPHY intercepting a missile just 10–15 meters from impact, saving the crew and preserving the vehicle.
TROPHY’s success has led to widespread international adoption.
The United States has integrated it into its M1A2 Abrams tanks, with EuroTrophy GmbH facilitating European deployment.
The UK has equipped its Challenger 3 tanks with the system, and Germany has installed it on Leopard 2 MBTs.
As of 2025, at least six NATO countries have procured TROPHY, making it the only fully fielded APS in the alliance.
The system weighs approximately 820 kg in its heavy variant and 480 kg in the medium version, allowing flexibility across platforms including APCs and 8×8 vehicles.
Compared to Russian Arena-M or American Iron Curtain systems, TROPHY boasts superior combat validation, faster reaction times, and broader integration.
Its ability to operate in urban and open terrain, combined with real-time threat classification, makes it indispensable in modern warfare.
As anti-tank threats proliferate, TROPHY ensures Israeli and allied forces maintain armored superiority in increasingly hostile environments.
