Rafael Signs Historic $2.3 Billion Air Defense Deal with Romania

Israeli defense company Rafael has secured a landmark agreement to supply its Spider air defense systems to the Romanian military, valued at approximately $2.3 billion. This deal marks the largest in Rafael's history and includes a comprehensive package of launchers, interceptors, radar systems, training, and logistical support. Delivery is expected to begin within 36 months, with extensive industrial cooperation and local production planned in Romania.

Unlike other Israeli systems such as Iron Dome or David's Sling, the Spider system is entirely developed in Israel without American funding, simplifying export procedures by eliminating the need for prior U.S. State Department approval. This deal ranks as the second-largest in Israeli defense exports, following the $3.5 billion Arrow 3 sale to Germany in 2023.

The announcement comes amid a record year for Israeli defense exports, which reached $19.2 billion in 2025, a 30% increase from the previous year despite calls for boycotts. Missile and air defense systems dominate these exports, with Europe becoming the primary market, accounting for 36% of total sales. Several European countries have recently purchased Israeli air defense systems, including Germany, Finland, Slovakia, and Cyprus.

Additionally, Israel is in advanced talks with Greece for a potential $3.5 billion multi-layered defense system, which could become the largest Israeli defense deal ever. Switzerland has also initiated discussions to acquire systems, possibly including David's Sling.