In an era where global security threats are evolving at lightning speed, the need for cutting-edge technology and reliable support systems is more critical than ever. As nations confront emerging threats and complex security challenges, ensuring that warfighters are equipped with advanced, battle-tested solutions is paramount. Meeting this demand requires innovative companies with proven track records of delivering top-tier defense products and services. One company that stands at the forefront of this mission, bridging the gap between innovation and defense readiness, is Rafael Systems Global Sustainment (RSGS).

RSGS, an all-American subsidiary and authorized broker for Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems (Rafael), is more than just a technology provider—it’s a vital link to the future of U.S. defense capabilities. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, RSGS works hand in hand with U.S. Federal, State, and local government agencies, bringing Rafael’s proven defense technologies to North America. Its mission is clear: to adapt Rafael’s world-class solutions to the specific needs of the U.S. market, ensuring that American warfighters have the tools they need to stay ahead of emerging threats. Through its focus on land and naval systems, the SPIKE family of missiles, and Counter-UAS (C-UAS) and air defense technologies, RSGS plays a pivotal role in enhancing the nation’s defense infrastructure.

At Business Honor, we had the great privilege of interviewing Joseph Anderson, President & Chief Executive Officer of RSGS. During our conversation, he shared valuable insights into how his company, guided by a clear vision to be the leading force in the U.S. defense sector, ensures that those who defend the nation are equipped with the most advanced technologies, keeping them safe and effective on every mission.

Interview Highlights

Q. What was the original vision behind the founding of RSGS, and how has that vision evolved since the company’s inception?

RSGS is a U.S.-based, proxy-led, FOCI-mitigated company supporting Rafael. We are both a products and services company organized across three business units: SPIKE Family of Missiles, Land & Naval Systems, and Air and Missile Defense/C-UAS. We market select defense and security products in the U.S. to fill operational gaps within the Department of Defense, across other Federal agencies and the states, and to commercial customers. We also provide required support services to a variety of Rafael programs for existing contracts. Our primary tasks are to “Americanize” Rafael’s products along three lines of effort: IP/Data Storage, Engineering Services, and Manufacturing. Our primary role is to facilitate the application, production, employment, and support of Rafael’s battlefield-tested combat-proven products and technologies in the United States.

Q. Can you provide an overview of RSGS’s core products and services, and how they address the specific needs of your clients in the U.S. defense and commercial sectors?

Our current core products are the SPIKE Precision Tactical Guided Missile Family, the TROPHY Active Protection System, and the Drone Dome C-UAS defense system. Our current core services product is the Medium Caliber Weapon Station (MCWS). The SPIKE Family’s 5th-generation electro-optical missiles provide unparalleled performance, enhanced lethality, survivability, and deterrence for the warfighter across land, sea, and air platforms. The MCWS provides increased lethality, accuracy, and range with its 30mm Samson turret, while enhancing the mobility and survivability of the Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicle. The TROPHY Active Protection System offers exceptional protection for static and maneuvering armored forces in combat environments. The Drone Dome end-to-end C-UAS solution combines 360° coverage with soft and hard-kill capabilities, quick response time, and a high engagement success rate, while minimizing collateral damage.

Q. Given your unique position as a U.S. subsidiary of an Israeli defense giant, how do you foster collaboration and innovation between the two nations’ defense ecosystems while maintaining your commitment to Americanization?

We foster collaboration by understanding what the U.S. current capability gaps are based on European and Indo Pacific plans and operations and try to mitigate that risk through the integration of Rafael’s proven and tested technologies. The innovation occurs in the areas such as Artificial Intelligence and C-UAS based on lessons learned in Israel.

Q. Can you share how RSGS leverages its battlefield-proven technologies in civilian applications, particularly in critical infrastructure protection or disaster management?

We can leverage Rafael’s battlefield-tested combat-proven technologies, particularly in civilian-centered infrastructure protection. The main area currently leveraged is situational awareness and understanding through our Fire Weaver Battle Management System. Fire Weaver technologies include computer vision, optimal shooter selection, data management, and a distributed system with a fires network. All of these capabilities enable maneuver dominance, integrated sensor-to-shooter systems, tactical decision-making at machine speed, and provide cognitive dissemination and a common visual language.

Q. How does RSGS approach collaboration with other industry leaders to enhance the effectiveness of your products and services?

We collaborate with our industry partners when a teaming agreement or joint venture provides additional capabilities or fills a void in our offering in order to enhance the effectiveness of our products and services. This primarily occurs in the manufacturing arena to increase our production capacity and make our supply chain more resilient.

Q. Could you share some of the key awards or recognitions that RSGS has received, and what these accolades mean for the company and its team?

• 2021 U.S. Department of Labor Hire Vets Platinum Award

• 2023 Employer Support to the Guard and Reserves Patriotic Employer

• 2023 U.S. Department of Labor Hire Vets Gold Award

• 2024 The Silicon Review Certificate of Excellence “30 Innovative Brands of the Year”

This means that we value our Veterans during their transition from military service to the civilian sector by offering them job opportunities. Most of our current employees have prior military service and remain committed to getting the best capabilities into the hands of our warfighters. Our Certificate of Excellence validates that we possess some of the best technologies in the defense market.

Q. RSGS is dedicated to filling capability gaps for the U.S. market. Can you highlight a recent project where your solution not only filled a gap but also created unexpected strategic advantages for your client?

In addition to our work with commercial partners, we have signed a Basic Ordering Agreement with the Joint Munitions Command (JMC) and McAlester Army Ammunition Plant (MCAAP) to jointly advance the production of the cutting-edge SPIKE missile system in the United States under the Public-Private Partnership program. The U.S. Army leverages these partnerships to preserve the Organic Industrial Base and ensure Soldiers have what they need when they need it. The 5th Generation SPIKE electro-optical guided missile system, renowned for its precision, versatility, and reliability, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of Rafael. The collaborative efforts between JMC, MCAAP, Rafael, and RSGS will not only provide a critical capability to our warfighters, but also enhance and maintain critical skill sets to meet the Army of 2030 and beyond.

Q. What new technologies or innovations is RSGS currently working on, and how do you envision these shaping the future of defense and security?

This first is our MCWS being selected for three brigades worth of Stryker vehicles that we hope to see expand. We were thrilled to be one of the partners on one of the teams for the Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle competition.  It is also good to be part of the solution for the Federal Aviation Administration’s approach to Countering UAVs at our commercial airports.   

Our evolution will mature around our Americanization Lines of Effort. We look forward to further developing our Public Private Partnership with the JMC and MCAAP for the hot integration of our SPIKE missiles. We will continue to work with our fellow subsidiaries, like C4ATS in Florida and PVP in California, to supply the components for our technologies here in the U.S. Manufacturing products in the U.S. remains a top priority for us. At the end of the day we look forward to becoming a profit and loss company and independent of any external financial assistance. 

The Stalwart Leader behind Rafael Systems Global Sustainment Unwavering Success

Joseph Anderson is the President & CEO of Rafael Systems Global Sustainment. With 38 years of distinguished service in the U.S. Army, where he commanded Infantry units from company to Corps level and completed numerous deployments, Anderson exemplifies exceptional leadership and strategic acumen. After his military career, he founded J Anderson Consulting Group, providing strategic advice to over 30 clients, including Renaissance Strategic Advisors, McKinsey & Company, and Logistik Unicorp.

Anderson’s business expertise extends to his roles as Chairman of the Board for 4C North America and Board Director for organizations like Systematic and Sequoia Holdings. He also serves as a Board Advisor for Wynnchurch Capital, Beacon Global Strategies, and Saildrone, and is Chairman of the Board of Advisors for the National Advanced Mobility Consortium. His recent advisory roles include Dataminr and Big Bear AI, and directorships at Sixgen, Defense Logistics, and Zasti.

An alumnus of the United States Military Academy, Anderson holds a Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University and a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. He furthered his education at the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School and has served as a visiting professor and senior mentor at prestigious institutions.

His leadership was notably demonstrated as Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Plans, and Training at the Pentagon, where he managed a 1.2 million-Soldier Army across 182 countries and a $26 billion training budget. Anderson’s service is also recognized through his roles with veteran-focused organizations, including serving as Chairman of the Board for Our Community Salutes and as Co-Chair of the Chief of Staff of the Army’s Retired Soldier Council.

“Our primary tasks are to “Americanize” Rafael’s products along three lines of effort: IP/Data Storage, Engineering Services, and Manufacturing. Our primary role is to facilitate the application, production, employment, and support of Rafael’s combat-proven products and technologies in the United States.”