Israel's "Arbel" Drone Interception System Enters Service in Thailand
Translated & summarized from Globes by baba
Thailand has purchased Israel Weapon Industries' "Arbel" anti-drone system, marking its first deployment in the Far East. The "plug-and-play" system integrates into existing personal weapons with minimal training. IWI is also in talks for additional orders in Thailand and other regional countries. This acquisition highlights Thailand's reliance on Israeli defense technology and the growing defense spending in Asia.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Thailand becomes the first Far East customer for Israel's IWI "Arbel" anti-drone system.
- The "Arbel" system integrates into existing personal weapons, requiring minimal training for soldiers.
- IWI is in discussions for further Arbel system orders in Thailand and other regional nations.
- The deal underscores Thailand's existing use of Israeli defense equipment and regional security concerns.
- The acquisition reflects a broader trend of increasing defense budgets in Asian countries.
Thailand has become the first country in the Far East to acquire Israel Weapon Industries' (IWI) "Arbel" anti-drone system, Globes has learned. The system is already operational or in the process of implementation in approximately 25 other countries worldwide. IWI is reportedly in discussions with additional Thai military entities for further Arbel orders, as well as with other nations in the region, with potential deals expected within months.
The Arbel system is a computerized fire control system designed to significantly enhance the probability of hitting a target. It integrates directly into a soldier's personal weapon, functioning as a "plug-and-play" module that replaces the rifle's lower receiver. This allows soldiers to continue using their familiar weapons and standard 5.56mm ammunition with minimal training, without needing additional equipment or platforms. The system is compatible with various optical sights, including thermal and night vision devices.
IWI offers two acquisition options: the Arbel system integrated into new IWI weapons, or as a module retrofitted onto existing client weapons. Thailand opted for the latter, with IWI teams replacing the lower receivers of their existing rifles. This choice is likely influenced by the close relationship between the Thai Ministry of Defense and IWI, whose firearms, such as the Tavor X95 and Galil ACE 23-N, are widely used by Thai forces.
Ronen Hamudot, Senior Vice President of SK Group, which owns IWI, stated that the Arbel system was developed to provide soldiers with an effective defense against the growing threat of small tactical drones, offering a crucial tactical advantage in complex combat zones. The deal also reflects a broader trend of increasing defense budgets in Asian countries, driven by factors like the perceived threat from China and regional tensions.
Thailand already utilizes various Israeli defense products, including Elbit's Hermes drones and Israel Aerospace Industries' Barak MX missile system. The country has also experienced issues with Chinese-made VT-4 tanks, leading them to view older American and Ukrainian tanks as more reliable. Meanwhile, Japan is significantly increasing its defense spending, aiming to acquire a wide range of advanced military equipment, including long-range missiles and unmanned systems, with Japanese defense industry representatives actively exploring strategic partnerships with Israeli companies.
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