Israel Doubles Down on Homegrown Defense: Defense Ministry Places Over NIS 600 Million in Elbit Orders

The Ministry of Defense announced today (Thursday) that it has placed multi-year orders with Elbit Systems totaling more than NIS 600 million. The move is part of preparations for immediate combat scenarios and for building long-term readiness for a challenging decade of security threats.

It was also stated that the deals, led by the Procurement Directorate’s Deputy Head for Air and Naval procurement, include the production of air-launched munitions to be carried out at Elbit plants across the country.

Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized the significance: "We continue to strengthen Israel’s independence in munitions. The IDF must, at any moment, have the means to act with force, quickly, and without dependence on external parties. In these days when we mark the 78th Independence Day, this has special meaning; true independence is also measured by the ability to manufacture and defend ourselves by our own power. We will continue to act resolutely to ensure that the State of Israel relies on its own strength and is ready for any challenge."

The Defense Ministry’s Director General, Maj. Gen. (res.) Amir Baram, presented the deal as part of a broader policy: "This deal is another practical step in implementing the Defense Ministry’s strategy to expand Israel’s defense-manufacturing base. In the face of complex challenges and the lessons of the war, it is our duty to guarantee Israel’s independence in munitions and to fortify 'blue-and-white' production capabilities. We are not only equipping for the immediate term, but laying a foundation that will allow the IDF to meet any combat scenario, relying on independent manufacturing capabilities, top-tier technology, and continuity of supply."

Elbit Systems President and CEO, Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis, addressed the partnership with the state and the technological aspect of the agreements: "This series of contracts underscores Elbit Systems’ position as a technological leader in air-launched munitions. We are proud of our longstanding partnership with Israel’s Ministry of Defense and our ongoing commitment to developing and delivering precise, reliable solutions that are among the enablers of the Israeli Air Force’s air superiority."