Israel Police Face Critical Shortage of Rifle Ammunition

Israel Police forces are facing a severe ammunition shortage, with only approximately 2,000 rounds remaining for the Arad-7 precision rifles used by elite and special units. The police are now urgently requesting the purchase of around 130,000 new rounds, a quantity 65 times larger than their current stock.

This deficit emerged about two and a half years after the rifles were acquired and distributed. The decision to place a large, urgent order was made only after the ammunition supply dwindled to a minimal level. The situation raises concerns about inventory planning and management, particularly given the current tense security environment.

In the event of escalation, multiple simultaneous security incidents, or prolonged operations, ammunition expenditure could surge, potentially creating a significant operational challenge. Police attributed the depletion of reserves to a "change in professional doctrine" and increased usage, specifically citing the need for ammunition when dealing with illegal infiltrators attempting to enter Israel.

The Arad-7 is a modular 7.62x51mm rifle designed for military, police, and special forces, excelling at accurate fire at medium to long ranges. According to its manufacturer, IWI, it can quickly engage multiple targets between 300 and 1,000 meters, with a marksman version offering high precision. While capable of a high rate of fire, its primary role is precise engagement with a powerful cartridge, not sustained automatic fire.