Israeli Defense Firms Target U.S. Market at Major Trade Show

Over 20 Israeli defense companies showcased their latest innovations at the AUSA 2026 exhibition in Washington this week, North America's largest land forces trade show. Following a record year in 2025 with $19.2 billion in military exports, Israeli manufacturers are aiming to expand their foothold in the U.S. market, especially with former President Donald Trump's plans to increase the U.S. defense budget to $1.5 trillion in 2027. Israel is one of nine countries with a national pavilion at the event, alongside France, Germany, and South Korea. The Israeli pavilion, coordinated by the Ministry of Defense, features 19 companies, while major players Rafael, Elbit Systems, and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) have their own dedicated spaces. Among the new technologies presented is Rafael's Sky Sonic, a system designed to intercept hypersonic missiles, which travel at over five times the speed of sound and can maneuver to evade capture. Rafael unveiled a full-scale model of the system, whose operational capabilities remain classified. IAI also displayed HawkGuard, a drone defense system utilizing radar, artificial intelligence, and interceptors to neutralize multiple threats simultaneously. Another notable innovation is the FIRE STORM 250, developed with American firm SIG SAUER. This drone is equipped with a remote-controlled machine gun and 200 rounds, capable of staying airborne for three hours, with human control over firing decisions. Elbit Systems introduced an upgraded version of its SkyStriker loitering munition, featuring increased range and a larger explosive payload. Israeli companies are also highlighting technologies for emerging battlefield threats, including net-based drone neutralization systems, GPS jamming countermeasures, AI-powered night vision devices, and hybrid engines to extend the flight time of unmanned aircraft. This commercial push comes as Europe accounted for 36% of Israeli military exports in 2025, compared to only 13% from North America, indicating significant growth potential in the U.S. market. However, the Israeli presence was met with protests against the war in Gaza. On Wednesday, six activists interrupted a speech by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, protesting the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Protesters were removed by security, allowing the conference to resume. Despite these demonstrations, Israeli manufacturers reported a positive reception in Washington, contrasting with difficulties experienced at some European trade shows due to boycott calls against Israel.