A hybrid naval solution is poised to give Israel the ability to launch missiles and loitering munitions from small support vessels controlled by a frigate mothership.
Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the DIAMOND solution enables a loyal wingman-style concept at sea, using smaller vessels that operate as extensions of a larger command ship.
This is made possible through DIAMOND’s modular systems installed on the so-called “wing-ships,” allowing them to function as if they are directly embedded within a frigate’s onboard combat systems.
The solution reportedly extends the operational “deck space” available to naval commanders by linking distributed assets to the ship’s radar and fire control systems.
“IAI, as a system house for innovation, is proud to lead the next generation in maritime defense with the introduction of the DIAMOND solution,” IAI Board Chairman Boaz Levy said.
“Combining modular architecture and enhanced firepower, our new solution represents a fundamental shift in naval warfare that will enable navies to respond to evolving threats in real-time with unprecedented flexibility and operational effectiveness.”
Expanding Naval Reach
With DIAMOND, wing-ships allow a single frigate to field additional interceptors and strike systems while expanding its operational area.
The solution can integrate loitering munitions such as Harop, Harpy and Mini-Harpy, strike weapons including Blue Spear cruise missiles and LORA ballistic missiles, air defense interceptors from the BARAK MX family, and counter-drone capabilities.
DIAMOND-equipped wing-ships support both offensive and defensive missions and can be rapidly reconfigured for different operational profiles.
Positioned as an off-the-shelf solution, DIAMOND could reduce the need for new warship construction, offering naval forces a more flexible and deployable force structure adapted to modern threats.
“Modern naval warfare is shifting from platform-centric operations to adaptive, networked force structures,” said Guy Barlev, executive vice president and general manager of Space Missiles and Space Group at IAI.
“This unique, new operational concept transforms how maritime forces project power and defend strategic assets in contested environments.”
