The Rafael '''Python''' ('''פיתון)''') is a family of [[air-to-air missile]]s (AAMs) built by the Israeli weapons manufacturer [[Rafael Advanced Defense Systems]], formerly RAFAEL Armament Development Authority. Originally starting with the ''Shafrir'' ({{langx|he|שפריר}}, loosely translated as a dome, or a protective cloak – but also similar sounding to [[Dragonfly]], a male form of [[inflection]] for [[Damselfly]] (שפירית)) series, the ''Shafrir-1'' missile was developed in 1959, followed by the ''Shafrir-2'' in early 1970s. Subsequently, the missiles were given the western name of "''Python''" by the parent company for export purposes, starting with the ''Python-3'' in 1978. Since then, it has been further developed and evolved into the ''Python-4'', ''Python-5'', ''Derby'' and also, the [[SPYDER]], an advanced ground-based air-defence system. Currently, the missiles are in service with the armed forces of over fifteen countries from around the world.
