Israeli Ministry of Defense

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.

IMoD Begins Clearance of Former Military Site for Public Beach Project The first phase of clearing unexploded ordnance from "Range 24," a former military firing range near Rishon LeZion, Israel, has begun. The Israel Ministry of Defense and Rishon Le-Zion Municipality have signed an agreement for this operation, to be carried out by the Israel National Mine Action Authority (INMAA). This project, part of a 2022 agreement, aims to convert the area into a public beach space and a nature reserve. Experts will soon start removing land-based ordnance and research efficient methods for clearing sea-based explosives. Once completed, this initiative will significantly expand Rishon LeZion's coastline, transforming former military land into accessible public space and balancing urban development with environmental preservation.

Innovative Israeli-Indian Collaboration in Counter-Drone Seminar 🇮🇳 🇮🇱 The Directorate for Defense Exports at the Israeli Ministry of Defense, SIBAT - Israel Ministry of Defense, in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy and Industry-משרד הכלכלה והתעשייה, Israel Export Institute מכון היצוא, Embassy of Israel In India, Ministry of Defense, Government of India, and Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers, held a seminar in Delhi, on September 2-3, to enhance security cooperation between Israel and India in combating the drone threat. The seminar, which was agreed upon following the visit of the Director General of the Ministry of Defense, Major General (Res.) Eyal Zamir, to India last month, is part of the expansion of cooperation and strengthening of strategic relations between the defense ministries of both countries and the defense industries. Throughout the seminar, nine Israeli defense companies showcased advanced technologies to counter the drone threat. D-Fend Solutions, Septier Communication and Sentrycs | Counter-Drone Solutions Adapting at the Speed of Threats presented Cyber Radio Frequency (CRF) based systems for detecting, locating, and neutralizing drones. SMARTSHOOTER demonstrated intelligent fire control systems for small arms to intercept drones. ThirdEye Systems showcased AI-driven vision and robotics systems for detecting and identifying drones and small aircraft. ELTA Systems Ltd, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Elbit Systems, and SKYLOCK - C-UAS exhibited solutions based on sensors, radars, electronic warfare, and communication systems for detecting, identifying, and neutralizing drones. During the seminar, Israel shared its operational experience and advanced technological capabilities with India, aiming to deepen security cooperation between the two countries. The seminar focused on addressing the growing threat of drones, both in security and criminal aspects, which poses a significant challenge to security forces worldwide due to their ability to be used for intelligence gathering, weapon carrying, and precise attacks. The event featured participation from representatives and senior officials from the Israel Ministry of Defense, economic and security attachés, and representatives from the Indian Ministry of Defense, military branches, Ministry of Interior, and defense and civilian industries from both countries. The seminar created a unique opportunity to showcase Israeli companies' advanced technologies, deepen security cooperation between Israel and India and promote joint solutions to security threats. Photo Credit: Deepak Kapoor Photography

The Israel Ministry of Defense and the IDF's Home Front Command have initiated a significant tender, valued in hundreds of millions of NIS, to enhance security along the northern border. This initiative, part of strategic responses to the ongoing war, focuses on strengthening defensive capabilities against regional threats. It includes developing and deploying technological solutions, including physical infrastructures, advanced detection and warning systems, command centers, and control mechanisms. The initiative is supported by the Director General of the IMoD, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, and involves the collaborative efforts of the ministry’s Department of Engineering and Construction and the Residential Communities Unit, together with the Home Front Command and Northern Command of the IDF.

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