Israeli Ministry of Defense

Israel Receives 500th Military Supply Aircraft in Ongoing Airlift Operation The 500th aircraft in the joint airlift operation conducted by the Directorate of Production and Procurement (DOPP) at the Israel Ministry of Defense and the IDF has landed in Israel as part of a large-scale logistical effort that began with the outbreak of the recent war. This operation is a collaboration between the DOPP's International Shipping Unit, the IMoD Mission to the United States, the IDF's Planning Directorate, and the Israeli Air Force. Through this operation, over 50,000 tons of military equipment have been delivered to Israel via 500 flights and 107 sea shipments. The equipment procured and transported includes armored vehicles, munitions, ammunition, personal protection gear, and medical equipment, which are crucial for sustaining the IDF's operational capabilities during the ongoing war.

Israel Ministry of Defense Signs Over $23 Million Deal with Ashot Ashkelon Industries Ltd for Merkava Tank and Namer APC Components The Directorate of Production and Procurement (DOPP) at the Israel Ministry of Defense, in collaboration with the IMoD’s Tank and APC Administration and the IDF's Technological and Logistics Directorate, announced today (Wednesday) the signing of a significant agreement with Ashot Ashkelon. The IMoD’s Director General, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, signed the contract as part of the ministry’s broader initiative to enhance the capabilities of Israel’s armored vehicles, such as the Merkava tanks and Namer APCs, which have been demonstrating their effectiveness during the recent war. This transaction is one of several strategic moves by the IMoD to ensure the IDF’s operational needs are consistently met, both now and in the future. Under the terms of the agreement, Ashot Ashkelon will manufacture and supply critical components for the Merkava tanks and Namer APCs, including 1,200 and 1,500 horsepower transmissions, suspensions, and drive systems, at a total cost of over $23 million (NIS 86.4 million). The deal also includes the procurement of spare parts and the restoration of advanced systems, which will be delivered to the IDF over the next two years. Ashot Ashkelon, a factory specializing in the production of complex drive systems, transmissions, and other unique components for armored vehicles, is a crucial supplier for the IDF's armored vehicle programs, ensuring the operational readiness and longevity of these critical defense systems. Photo Credit: Israel Ministry of Defense

Israel Ministry of Defense Introduces Enhanced Security Pilot for Gaza Border Communities The Israel Ministry of Defense, in partnership with the Tehkumah Authority, the IDF, and the Hof Ashkelon Regional Council, has initiated a pioneering pilot program to boost security in Gaza border communities significantly. This strategic initiative is focused on fortifying physical defenses, enhancing local rapid-response teams, and integrating advanced technological defense solutions. The pilot, currently underway in five frontline communities near the Gaza border, will soon be extended to all key communities in the region. With a budget of NIS 715 million provided by the Tehkumah Authority, the program is a proactive response to the events of October 7, designed to restore safety and confidence as residents return to their homes. This comprehensive security plan has been meticulously developed over recent months. It includes measures to reinforce local rapid-response teams, upgrade physical barriers such as fences and gates, and deploy state-of-the-art technologies like drones, command centers, and a specialized civilian communication network. This network will link local rapid-response teams directly with regional councils and IDF command centers. The pilot's official launch was marked by a simulation exercise on Monday, August 12, 2024, attended by senior officials, including the Director General of the Israel Ministry of Defense, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Mickey Edelstein, Brig. Gen. Avi Rosenfeld and representatives from the Tehkumah Authority, the Home Front Command, and the IDF.

The Israel Defense Forces Navy, the DDR&D (MAFAT) - Directorate of Defense Research & Development at the Israel Ministry of Defense, and IAI - Israel Aerospace Industries completed a successful test of the 'LRAD' long-range interceptor this week. During the test, a precise rocket was launched at a target, simulating a strategic asset at sea. The 'Barak MX’ air defense system detected, tracked, and classified the target as a threat, completing a successful interception and destruction of the target. This test demonstrates the operational readiness and effectiveness of the system in parallel with ongoing combat. The Sa'ar 6-class missile ships declared operational during the recent war, feature a comprehensive air defense system comprising hard and soft defense mechanisms. The 'Barak MX’ system, developed by IAI, includes a radar capable of detecting a range of threats, classifying them, and intercepting them with the 'LRAD' long-range interceptor. This combination bolsters the Navy's capability to achieve maritime superiority and counter various near and far threats, including aircraft, UAVs, cruise missiles, ballistic, and coastal threats. Video Credit: IDF & IMoD

Proud to see the successful collaboration between the DDR&D (MAFAT) - Directorate of Defense Research & Development at the Israel Ministry of Defense and the United States Department of Defense in the Operational Technology Working Group (OTWG). 🇮🇱🇺🇸

Israel Ministry of Defense to Purchase Ammunition Systems Worth Approximately $340 Million from Elbit Systems Director General of the Israel Ministry of Defense, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, signed an ammunition deal with Elbit Systems yesterday (July 31, 2024), worth approximately $340 million. As part of this deal, Elbit will establish a new facility in Israel to produce ammunition and munitions. The signing ceremony was held at the Israel Ministry of Defense headquarters in the Kirya Base in Tel Aviv and was also attended by Zeev Landau, Head of the Directorate of Production and Procurement (DOPP) at the IMoD; Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis, President and CEO of Elbit Systems; Yehuda (Udi) Vered, General Manager of Elbit Systems Land; Dekel Cohen, Head of the Finance Department at the IMoD; and other senior officials. This procurement is part of the IMoD’s strategy to ensure a steady supply of critical materials for the IDF's strength and longevity during ongoing and future operations. Director General of the Israel Ministry of Defense, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir: “This deal marks a significant milestone in the Ministry of Defense's vision, initiated under Minister Yoav Galant's guidance, to ensure the continuous advancement of the IDF's operational capabilities. We are committing millions to build and expand production lines, supporting our long-term objectives. Beyond addressing immediate security needs, this investment will stimulate the economy, create new jobs, and drive future growth in defense exports.” President and CEO of Elbit Systems, Bezalel (Butzi) Machlis: “This agreement, which complements the ‘Iron Sting’ deal reported earlier this week, reflects Elbit's deep connection with the Israeli defense establishment and the IDF. We continue to expand our production facilities to meet our commitments to customers in Israel and abroad. I thank the IDF and the Israel Ministry of Defense for their trust in Elbit, which consistently works to develop and deliver leading-edge and innovative technological solutions that prove their worth time and again.” Photo Credit: Israel Ministry of Defense

Israel Ministry of Defense Appoints New Head of IMoD Mission to the U.S. 🇮🇱🇺🇸 The Israel Ministry of Defense has appointed Aviram Hasson as the new head of its Mission to the United States, succeeding Brig. Gen. (Res.) Mishel Ben Baruch, who served in the role for five years. Aviram Hasson officially assumed his role during the mission's transition ceremony, attended by Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir in Tel Aviv and New York. Hasson brings three decades of experience within the IDF and the Ministry of Defense. His predecessor, Brig. Gen. (Res.) Mishel Ben Baruch, completed over ten years of service in the IMoD, including roles as Military Secretary to the Minister of Defense, head of SIBAT, and head of the IMoD Mission to the U.S. He managed a significant airlift of medical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic and oversaw major defense procurement deals, including F-35 squadrons, refueling aircraft, CH-53K helicopters, and landing crafts for the Navy. Additionally, Since October 7th, the Mission has achieved an unprecedented $11 billion in defense acquisitions. This includes a third F-35 squadron, tank and armored vehicle engines, and combat vehicles. The Mission also transported thousands of tons of equipment to Israel via hundreds of flights and dozens of sea shipments, marking the highest procurement volume ever in such a timeframe. Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir thanked Mishel Ben Baruch for his service and welcomed Aviram Hasson: “This leadership change comes during a challenging war, underscoring the Mission's critical importance to Israel's national security. Mishel, your experience and professionalism greatly contributed to our procurement success. Aviram, your extensive experience will ensure continued success in this vital role.”

Israel Ministry of Defense Acquires over $220 Million Worth of "Iron Sting" Precision-Guided Mortar Munitions from Elbit Systems. Director General of the Israel Ministry of Defense, Major General (Res.) Eyal Zamir, has signed an order worth over $220 million for thousands of "Iron Sting" precision-guided mortar munitions from Elbit Systems. These advanced precision-guided munitions (PGMs) are set to enhance the operational capabilities of the IDF's ground forces. "Iron Sting" PGMs are equipped with sophisticated laser and GPS guidance systems, enabling precise targeting while minimizing collateral damage and reducing the risk to non-combatants. These advanced munitions represent a significant leap in the IDF's ability to conduct operations in complex combat conditions and urban environments. In response to the outbreak of war, the IMoD Directorate of Defense Procurement (DOPP) has accelerated the acquisition of cutting-edge armaments. This initiative aims to ensure that IDF forces are equipped with the most advanced and effective ammunition, enhancing their operational efficiency and safety. Video Credit: Elbit Systems

Strengthening Ties: Israel-India Defense Cooperation Visit 🇮🇱🇮🇳 The Director General of the Israel Ministry of Defense, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir led a working visit to India as head of an IMoD delegation. The visit aimed to promote strategic dialogue and strengthen defense cooperation between Israel and India. The delegation met with the Director General of the Indian Ministry of Defense, the Indian Chief of Staff, and the heads of the Indian Army's security arms. During the visit, DG Zamir presented an overview of the strategic landscape in the Middle East and insights gained from the recent war, emphasizing the capabilities and technologies employed by the IDF in various arenas. The parties also discussed ways to deepen the security ties between their defense ministries across various axes. Additionally, DG Zamir hosted an Israeli-Indian Industries Forum, led by the International Defense Cooperation Directorate at IMoD (SIBAT), with participation from senior officials of the Israeli and Indian defense industries. The forum aimed to promote dialogue, remove barriers, and enhance the potential for industrial-defense cooperation between the countries. The IMoD delegation also toured joint production lines established by Israeli security industries in support of India's 'Make in India' policy initiative. Accompanying DG Zamir were the Head of the Security-Political Division at IMoD, Brig. Gen. (Res.) Dror Shalom; Head of SIBAT, Brig. Gen. (Res.) Yair Kulas; Head of the R&D Unit at IMoD's Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D), Brig. Gen. Yehuda Elmakias; Defense Attaché to the Israeli Embassy in India, Col. Avihai Zafrani; and other senior officials. Photo Credit: Israel Ministry of Defense and the Indian Army

The Israeli Ministry of Defense DDR&D (MAFAT) - Directorate of Defense Research & Development hosted an exhilarating Demo Day for Innofense startups, highlighting groundbreaking solutions and fostering strategic partnerships between the private and security sectors. The event was attended by the Director General of the IMOD, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, Head of DDR&D, Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Dr. Daniel Gold, Head of Planning, Economics & IT Department at DDR&D, Col. Nir Weingold, and the DDR&D CTO, Dr. Gal Harari. It provided startups with a platform to present their cutting-edge products to investors and engage in valuable networking opportunities, showcasing technologies that underscored the critical need for collaboration between startups and the defense sector and the importance of venture capital in driving these innovations forward. In its fourth round, INNOFENSE has bridged the gap between the IMOD and the entrepreneurial community, connecting defense challenges with innovative solutions. The program offers techno-operational support from DDR&D and guidance from iHLS Israel Homeland Security and SOSA, assisting startups in business development and market penetration. During the recent war, Innofense alumni have secured over $5 million in follow-up R&D orders and attracted investments exceeding half a billion USD, demonstrating the program's impact on defense technology’s role in addressing Israel's challenges.