Israeli Defense Firms Seek Major US Deals for Advanced Missile and Drone Interceptors
Translated & summarized from Walla by baba
Israeli defense companies are showcasing advanced missile and drone interception systems at the AUSA exhibition in Washington, aiming to secure major export deals in the US market. Key exhibits include Rafael's "Sky Sonic" hypersonic missile interceptor and IAI's HawkGuard drone defense system. The companies are also highlighting their ability to manufacture systems locally for the US military. The Ministry of Defense is supporting smaller Israeli firms with innovative defense solutions at the event.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israeli defense firms are exhibiting advanced missile and drone interceptors at the AUSA show in Washington.
- Rafael is presenting its "Sky Sonic" hypersonic missile interceptor and upgraded "Spike" missiles.
- Israel Aerospace Industries unveiled HawkGuard, a compact active defense system with an interceptor drone.
- The companies are emphasizing their capacity for local production to meet US military demands.
- The Israeli Ministry of Defense is supporting 19 smaller defense-tech companies at the exhibition.
Israeli defense industries are actively seeking significant export deals in the United States, showcasing advanced missile and drone interception systems at the AUSA exhibition in Washington. While Europe has become a major buyer of Israeli air defense systems, with 36% of defense exports going there in 2025, the North American market, which accounted for 13% of a record $19.2 billion in global sales in the past year, is a key focus. Israeli companies are presenting solutions to complement existing US systems, particularly against emerging threats like hypersonic missiles and drones.
Rafael is debuting a model of its "Sky Sonic" hypersonic missile interceptor, a self-funded project aimed at countering threats already operational in China and Russia. These missiles travel at over 5,000 km/h and can maneuver sharply, posing a challenge to conventional interceptors. Additionally, Rafael is showcasing its "Spike" anti-tank missile, offering a version compatible with existing US Army Bradley Fighting Vehicle launchers, and its long-range "Spike NLOS" system. The company emphasizes its capability for local US production to meet Pentagon requirements.
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) unveiled HawkGuard, a compact active defense system featuring radar, electro-optical sensors, AI control, and a kinetic interceptor drone. This system offers a cost-effective, clean interception method and is available in mobile and stationary versions. IAI CEO Guy Barlev highlighted the system's role in a multi-layered defense strategy, adapting to various threats and operational environments.
Elbit Systems, now operating as Twenty-Six Defense in the US, is presenting an upgraded "Sky Striker" loitering munition with extended range and a larger warhead, alongside advanced soldier vision systems. Tomer, a state-owned rocket motor manufacturer, is also exhibiting its capabilities as a supplier to American missile producers, seeking to expand its customer base beyond its primary Israeli clients.
The Ministry of Defense, through its Defense Export Agency (SIBAT), is supporting 19 smaller Israeli defense-tech companies at AUSA, showcasing niche solutions for GPS jamming, drone interception, explosive detection, and flexible solar panels. SIBAT head Yair Kulas stated that the mission is to foster long-term cooperation by demonstrating the operational effectiveness and value of Israeli defense technologies to the US military and its partners.
Mentioned
