Israeli Ministry of Defense

The United States Marine Corps Have Successfully Completed Their First Live-Fire Training with an Air Defense System Integrating the Iron Dome Interceptor 🇺🇸🇮🇱 The system is based on an American radar and command-and-control center, combined with the Iron Dome (Tamir) interceptor and a mobile launcher developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Raytheon as a prime contractor. During the training, the Marines fully operated the system, leading to the successful interception of targets. Additionally, the continuous launch capability of the Iron Dome interceptors from a mobile launcher, developed specifically for the Marines, was tested. The training followed the completion of an entire training program and a series of tests as part of the development and acquisition plan led by the Marines to assess a new prototype system for medium-range intercept capability (MRIC). The successful training demonstrated the forces’ proficiency in fully operating the system, the performance of the mobile launcher developed for the Marines, and the capabilities of the Iron Dome interceptor in relevant and challenging interception scenarios. The Tamir interceptor can intercept cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and various rockets, artillery shells, and mortars. The interceptor is developed by Rafael, which partnered with Raytheon as prime contractor in adapting it to the Marine Corps's configuration and in training support. The success of the live-fire exercise marks a significant milestone toward the operational deployment of the first prototype battery for the Marines. The Israel Missile Defense Organization (IMDO) at the DDR&D (MAFAT) - Directorate of Defense Research & Development of the Israel Ministry of Defense leads the development of Israel’s multi-layered defense system, which is based on four operational defense layers: the Iron Dome Defense System, the David’s Sling Weapon System, and the Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 Weapon Systems.

Historic Ceremony in Germany Marks the Launch of the First Leopard Tank Equipped with Israeli TROPHY Active Protection System 🇩🇪🇮🇱 In a landmark ceremony held today (Tuesday, October 29), the Israel Ministry of Defense and the German Ministry of Defense inaugurated the first Leopard 2 tank upgraded with the Israeli TROPHY Active Protection System, developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. This deployment follows a 2020 agreement, spearheaded by the Ministry’s R&D Unit in the Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D), to equip Germany’s Leopard 2 tank fleet with Israel’s premier active protection technology. The ceremony, attended by Viceadmiral Carsten Stawitzki, National Armaments Director in the German Ministry of Defense, highlights the deepening defense ties between Germany and Israel. This milestone adds to a series of recent high-value defense agreements, including Germany’s purchase of Israel’s Arrow missile defense system, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing defense capabilities. The TROPHY system was developed in collaboration with the IMoD’s DDR&D, the Tank and APC Administration, and RAFAEL and is the world's only operational and most advanced active protection system of its kind. Designed to protect tanks and armored personnel carriers, TROPHY offers robust defense against an extensive array of anti-tank threats. Operational in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) since 2011, it is installed on all newly produced Merkava Mark IV tanks and NAMER APCs. Proven in numerous operational activities, TROPHY has recorded multiple successful intercepts, safeguarding both troops and armored assets on the battlefield. In the photo, from right to left: Ltc. L., Head of the Survivability Systems Branch at the IMoD’s DDR&D; Viceadmiral Carsten Stawitzki, National Armaments Director in the German Ministry of Defense; M., IMoD’s DDR&D Representative in Germany; Mr. Frank Lobitz, German Project Manager Photo Credit: Israel Ministry of Defense

Major Milestone in High-Power Laser Intercept System Development: The Israel Ministry of Defense signed a landmark deal worth approximately NIS 2 billion (over $500 million) yesterday (Sunday) to expand serial production of Israel's first domestically developed laser interception system, the Iron Beam, with lead developers Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems. Director General of the Ministry of Defense, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, signed the deal at a ceremony at the Ministry's headquarters in Tel Aviv attended by Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Dr. Daniel Gold, Head of the DDR&D (MAFAT) - Directorate of Defense Research & Development; Yoav Tourgeman, CEO of Rafael Advanced Defense Systems; Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis, CEO of Elbit Systems; Dekel Cohen, CPA, Head of the Ministry's Finance Department; attorney Itay Ophir, Legal Advisor to the Defense Establishment; and other senior officials. Iron Beam is a ground-based high-power laser air defense system designed to counter aerial threats, including rockets, mortars, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and cruise missiles. The Ministry of Defense's (IMod) DDR&D’s R&D Unit leads the project with primary developers Rafael and Elbit Systems. The Iron Beam system represents a global technological breakthrough, with its impressive interception capabilities demonstrated through a series of successful trials. The system is expected to integrate into Israel's multi-layered defense array as a complementary capability to the Iron Dome system. This integration will significantly enhance Israel's defense capabilities against current and future threats while offering substantially lower operational costs.

SIBAT - Israel Ministry of Defense and leading Israeli defense industries participated in the Association of the United States Army - AUSA 2024 exhibition, showcasing a range of groundbreaking defense technologies. The event, held from October 14 to 16 in Washington, DC, saw sixteen leading Israeli companies presenting innovations that promise to reshape modern warfare and security operations. The Israeli mission engaged in meaningful discussions, reaffirming Israel's commitment to addressing evolving global security needs while fostering strong strategic alliances. Inaugurated by the head of SIBAT, Brig. Gen (Res.) Yair Kulas and the Israeli Ambassador to the United States, Michael Herzog. The Israeli companies presented cutting-edge technologies across various categories, including Computers and Electronics, Logistics, Security and Protection, and UXV and Autonomy, while establishing new business connections and strengthening existing partnerships. Notably, Thermal Beacon Ltd., Steadicopter and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems unveiled new products at the exhibition. Thermal Beacon presented two new products: Orion, a helmet-mounted, all-in-one Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) beacon designed to ensure secure identification of friendly forces, providing crystal-clear distinction from other battlefield elements; and the Thermal Brake Illuminator, a thermal signaling device designed specifically for military armored platforms and special forces vehicles, emitting a distinct thermal signature detectable by Long and Mid-Wave Infrared cameras, functioning as a critical brake-backlight system to ensure safety during maneuvers when drivers use a thermal observation system. Steadicopter, in collaboration with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, unveiled the Golden Eagle Heavy Strike Rotary Unmanned Aerial System. This unmanned helicopter, weighing 50 kilograms, is equipped with Spike SR or LR2 missiles, providing precision strike capabilities at ranges of 2.5 and 5.5 kilometers, respectively. Designed for tactical operations and close air support, it offers rapid strike capabilities in complex environments, reducing risk to ground forces. The system features advanced sensors, including a high-definition day/night electro-optical/infrared payload and an optional AI-driven target tracking system, enabling effective operation in harsh conditions and varied terrains. Multiple Golden Eagle HS platforms can operate jointly, ensuring mission continuity and enhancing operational effectiveness.

Israel's Defense MOD Accelerates Development of Advanced Interception Technologies to Counter Drone Threats Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Israel's Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Gila Gamliel, Director General of the IMoD Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, IDF Deputy Chief of Staff, Maj. Gen. Amir Baram and Brig. Gen. (Res.) Dr. Daniel Gold, head of the DDR&D (MAFAT) - Directorate of Defense Research & Development , led a first-of-its-kind trial yesterday (Monday) to identify and demonstrate new capabilities for intercepting Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). This groundbreaking event showcased various solutions as part of an expedited competitive process initiated by the Defense Minister several weeks prior, to rapidly develop innovative interception solutions in response to the evolving security landscape. The trial took place at a testing field in southern Israel, with the participation of eight Israeli industries, ranging from major companies (Elbit Systems, Rafael, and Israel Aerospace Industries) to startup firms, presenting technological solutions for UAV interception. Solutions that met the threshold requirements in the demonstration phase will advance to accelerated development and operational testing. As part of the competition, the defense industries deployed prototypes of their interception systems, developed under DDR&D's leadership, and demonstrated UAV interception capabilities at various ranges and flight altitudes. After analyzing the trial results, the Ministry of Defense will select several technologies to enter an accelerated development and production process. This aims to deploy new operational capabilities within months. CEOs of defense industries and senior officials from the IDF and Ministry of Defense attended the trial.

The Director General of the Israel Ministry of Defense, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, convened the CEOs of major defense industries: Boaz Levy of IAI - Israel Aerospace Industries, Yoav Tourgeman of Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, and Bezalel (Butzi) Machlis of Elbit Systems. The discussion, also attended by Brig. Gen. (Res.) Dr. Daniel Gold, head of the Ministry’s DDR&D (MAFAT) - Directorate of Defense Research & Development, and other senior officials, covered a comprehensive defense review. Key topics included lessons learned, strengthening readiness, preparation for possible future escalations, and maintaining focused efforts on production and operational endurance during the ongoing war. The meeting also emphasized the growing capabilities of Israel's domestic defense manufacturing. Since October 7th, 2023, the Ministry has made local purchases amounting to tens of billions of shekels from the defense industries. DG of the IMoD, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir: "The defense industries are a strategic arm of the State of Israel and the foundation for endurance in a prolonged campaign. Their mobilization from the break of war, working around the clock and doubling production lines, is worthy of all appreciation. Most of our operational achievements and decisive capabilities stem from their developed defensive and offensive systems."

The Israel Ministry of Defense is proud to participate once again in the Association of the United States Army - AUSA exhibition. This event provides an invaluable platform for showcasing cutting-edge defense technologies and fostering international cooperation in the field of defense innovation.

In collaboration with the Department of Engineering and Construction of the Israel Ministry of Defense, the IDF destroyed a 250-meter-long underground infrastructure in southern Lebanon. This infrastructure was discovered and investigated during cross-border operations conducted in recent weeks involving special units. During these operations, forces uncovered command rooms, pre-prepared combat files for terrorists, and a large cache of weapons stockpiled for future use. The facility also included well-equipped living quarters featuring showers, a kitchen, food supplies, and other amenities. This underground structure did not extend into Israeli territory.

🇮🇱 Israeli Defense Industry Unveils Cutting-Edge Technologies at ADAS 2024 in the Philippines 🇵🇭 The International Defense Cooperation Directorate at Israel’s Ministry of Defense (SIBAT - Israel Ministry of Defense), alongside leading Israeli defense industries, participated in the Asian Defense and Security - ADAS Exhibition 2024 exhibition that opened today in Manila, Philippines. The event highlighted Israel’s advanced defense solutions and enhanced strategic relationships in the Asia-Pacific region. Bringing together global defense industry leaders, Israel’s participation, coordinated by SIBAT, showcased the nation’s innovative field-proven technologies. ADAS 2024 was a pivotal platform for Israeli defense companies to demonstrate their capabilities, forge new business connections, and strengthen existing partnerships. The Israeli mission, led by Brig. Gen. (Res.) Yair Kulas, Head of SIBAT, engaged in meaningful discussions, reaffirming Israel’s commitment to addressing the evolving security needs of the region while fostering strong strategic alliances. Throughout the exhibition, Israeli companies displayed advanced defense solutions across multiple domains. IAI - Israel Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems, and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems demonstrated their expertise across the aerospace, land, naval, and cyber sectors. Israel Shipyards Ltd presented naval vessels like the Shaldag fast patrol craft, while Orbit Communication Systems exhibited SATCOM terminals. Regulus Cyber highlighted its Ring C-UxS system for countering uncrewed threats, and TechMer displayed AI-driven situational awareness and C-UAS capabilities. Additionally, Tilag Group, Jenovice, UVision Air Ltd., DSIT SOLUTIONS Ltd., BIRD Aerosystems, Corsight AI, Marom Dolphin Ltd. and ISI - ImageSat International showcased innovative technologies ranging from cyber intelligence to space-based intelligence platforms, collectively demonstrating Israel’s comprehensive defense capabilities. Brig. Gen. (Res.) Yair Kulas, Head of the IMoD’s Directorate for Defense Exports (SIBAT): “The strong presence of Israeli defense companies at ADAS 2024 underscores Israel’s leadership in defense technology and its dedication to international cooperation in addressing modern security challenges. We value these partnerships and believe that events like ADAS provide an essential platform for promoting Israeli industries while addressing the evolving global security landscape. Our presence in this event reflects the trust and depth of cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.”

Israel MOD and IDF Bolster Northern Border Security: 97 Rapid Response Units Re-equipped As part of a joint operation, the Israel Ministry of Defense and the IDF have successfully re-equipped 97 rapid response units along the northern border, marking a significant milestone in the country's national security strategy. As part of this initiative, the Director General of the IMoD, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, has signed off on the procurement of over 9,000 cutting-edge "Arad" rifles. This substantial investment, valued at around NIS 50 million (roughly USD 13.5 million), will arm rapid response units nationwide. The rifles, developed and manufactured in Israel by IWI (Israel Weapon Industries), complement the 5,000 "Arad" rifles previously acquired at the onset of the current war. The first phase of the operation has equipped units in various northern communities, including regional councils such as Upper Galilee, Ma'ale Yosef, Mevo'ot HaHermon, Merom HaGalil, and Mateh Asher. Cities like Nahariya, Kiryat Shmona, and Ma'alot-Tarshiha, as well as the local councils of Metula, Shlomi, Hurfeish, Fassuta, and Kfar Vradim, have also received comprehensive equipment packages. Each unit has been outfitted with combat and rescue gear, medical supplies, uniforms, and protective equipment. The operation's second phase is now underway, focusing on equipping communities in the Golan Heights. Once completed, 120 rapid response units in northern Israel will be fully re-equipped, significantly enhancing the region's security infrastructure. Director General of the Israel Ministry of Defense, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir: "Since the start of the war and as part of our lessons learned, the Ministry has been strengthening the rapid response units that fought heroically on October 7th. After rearming the communities on the Gaza border, we are now completing the re-equipment of approximately 100 units in the north with advanced weaponry, including the “Arad” – a state-of-the-art Israeli-developed rifle. This initiative is part of our policy to bolster border defense while enhancing self-reliant production capabilities. The Israel Ministry of Defense and the IDF will continue strengthening, equipping, and training these units." This operation represents a collaborative effort between various IDF commands, including the Northern Command, the Home Front Command, and the Ground Forces, as well as multiple departments within the Ministry of Defense. This comprehensive approach underscores Israel's commitment to maintaining its technological edge in defense and its dedication to protecting its citizens in the face of potential threats.