Israel has contracted Israel Aerospace Industries to produce additional Arrow interceptors, a component of the country’s multi-tiered air defense system.
Developed and produced in cooperation with the US Missile Defense Agency, the exo and endo-atmospheric anti-ballistic missile has a range of 2,400 kilometers (1,500 miles) and a flight ceiling of over 100 kilometers (62 miles).
Israel extensively deployed the system during the 12-day military conflict with Iran in June, with reports claiming that the missile’s stockpile was depleted during the aerial clash.
To Bolster Key Capability
Although the Israel Defense Forces denied the reports, the latest production contract indicates an intent to replenish a key system that proved effective during Operation Rising Lion.
Additionally, the Arrow has been deployed to knock out ballistic missiles fired by the Houthi rebels during the Swords of Iron War against Hamas.
“Israeli defense systems in general, and the Arrow system in particular, demonstrated exceptional capabilities during the war,” Israel Missile Defense Organization Director General, Maj. Gen. (Reserve) Amir Baram said.
“The numerous interceptions it carried out saved many lives and significantly reduced economic damage.
Accelerating the production rate of the Arrow and other critical systems is a central component of the Ministry’s strategy to expand production capabilities and improve operational readiness for the continuation of the war and future campaigns.”
Hike in Defense Spending
The contract preceded Israel announcing a raise in its defense spending by 42 billion new Israeli shekels ($12.5 billion) in 2025 and 2026.
The country’s current annual defense spending is 110 billion new Israeli shekels ($32.7 billion), approximately 9 percent of its gross domestic product.
The additional spending will allow the country’s ministry of defense to advance procurement of weapon systems critical to national security.
