IAI Harpy

IAI Harpy overview

The IAI Harpy is an autonomous anti-radiation drone developed by Israel Aerospace Industries in the late 1980s. Designed as a suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) weapon, the Harpy is launched from a ground vehicle in salvos and loiters over a target area autonomously seeking enemy radar emissions. When it detects an active radar, it dives toward the source and detonates its 32 kg high-explosive warhead, destroying the air defense radar. The Harpy can loiter for up to 2.5 hours at ranges exceeding 500 km.

The Harpy has been widely exported, with notable customers including China, South Korea, India, and Turkey. Its sale to China in the 1990s and subsequent reported upgrade caused significant diplomatic tensions between Israel and the United States. As of 2025, the original Harpy remains in service with several operators, though it has been largely superseded by the more capable Harop and Harpy NG (Mini Harpy) in IAI's product line. The Harpy's historical significance is enormous, as it pioneered the concept of autonomous loitering munitions specifically designed for SEAD, a concept that has since proliferated worldwide and proven decisive in modern conflicts.

Armament

32 kg anti-radiation warhead (integral)

Development and operational timeline

1. Jan 1990IAI Harpy enters production and initial service
2. Jun 1994China purchases Harpy systems from Israel
3. Jan 2005Israel-China Harpy upgrade controversy with United States
4. Apr 2016Harpy used in Nagorno-Karabakh April 2016 escalation
5. Feb 2024Harpy NG announced as modernized replacement