Israel Defence Exports
Israel’s defense exports reached $14.79 billion in 2024—a 13% increase over the previous year, the Ministry of Defence announced on Wednesday. According to government data, European countries received 54% of Israel’s defense exports, up from 35% in 2023.
Asia and the Pacific region accounted for 23% of Israeli defense exports in 2024, followed by Abraham Accords countries (12%), North America (9%), and Latin America and Africa (1% each).
Missiles, rockets, and aircraft defense systems account for 48% of exports, up from 36% in 2023. Satellite and space systems exports increased to 8% of total deals in 2024, up from 2% the previous year.
In 2024, vehicles and armored personnel carriers made up the largest chunk of Israel’s defense exports, pulling in around 9% of total sales. Piloted aircraft and avionics accounted for a substantial 8% of Israel’s defense exports, closely followed by cutting-edge observation gear and optronics at 6%.
Cyber and Information Systems
Next came intelligence, cyber, and information systems, which accounted for 4%, and ammunition and armaments brought in 3%. Weapon stations and launchers made up 2%, as did C4I and communication systems. On the lower end, drones and UAVs each represented just 1%, as did naval platforms and maritime systems.
The announcement follows the Defense Ministry’s directive to Israeli defense companies throughout the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict to prioritize supplying the Israel Defense Forces’ needs over those of other customers.
The three largest Israeli defense companies are Israel Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems, and Rafael. The companies reported record 2024 results and order backlogs of $25 billion, $22.6 billion, and $17.7 billion, respectively.
Conclusion
Speaking on Israel’s defense outlook, Maj. Gen. (res.) Amir Baram emphasized the need for action. He noted that, therefore, expanding Israel’s defense production base is essential.
This move, he explained, ensures consistent security readiness—even in difficult times. Moreover, it allows Israel to boost its defense export capacity significantly. “We will work to expand existing markets, enter new markets, and maximize Israel’s unique defense technology ecosystem.”
References
- Israel Ministry of Defense – Official Website
- Israel Aerospace Industries – Annual Reports
- Elbit Systems – Investor Relations
- Rafael Advanced Defense Systems – Newsroom
- Times of Israel – Defence Export Record 2024
- Defense News – Middle East Section
- Haaretz – Israel Defence Industry
- Jane’s Defence Weekly – Israel
- Reuters – Israel Defence Export Data
- The Jerusalem Post – Defence & Security
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