AirMiddle East

Israel Buys More Iron Dome Interceptors With US Aid

Israel’s Ministry of Defense has finalized a procurement agreement with state-owned Rafael for additional Iron Dome interceptors, enhancing the country’s multi-layered air defense capabilities.

The funding for the new contract will be sourced from the $8.7-billion US aid package approved for Israel in April 2024.

This deal will enable Rafael to ramp up production of the “Tamir” interceptors, ensuring a “significant quantity” is delivered to the Israel Defense Forces.

Rafael CEO Yoav Tourgeman praised the agreement, noting that it “represents a strong vote of confidence” in the renowned Iron Dome system.

We remain steadfast in our mission to serve as a pillar of Israel’s security, working decisively to meet evolving threats,” he added.

Rafael will collaborate with other Israeli firms, ELTA Systems and mPrest Defense, to fulfill the new contract.

Replenishing Stockpiles

Developed in partnership with the US, the Iron Dome system is designed to intercept short- and medium-range threats, such as rockets, missiles, drones, and low-flying aircraft.

It has proven effective in protecting Israeli infrastructure, with a reported interception success rate of 90 percent.

Each Iron Dome battery is equipped with 20 Tamir missile interceptors, capable of engaging targets up to 70 kilometers (43 miles) away.

The new deal with Rafael is expected not only to strengthen Israel’s air defense but also to replenish stockpiles that were depleted during the Gaza conflict.

Iron Dome has been used extensively to intercept thousands of rockets fired by Hamas and Hezbollah.

“The Iron Dome system has transformed the battlefield, protected critical infrastructure, and saved many civilian lives,” stated Israel Ministry of Defense Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir.

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