Rafael Plans Iron Dome Interceptor Production Line in India to Boost Exports and Cut Costs

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is in talks with Indian defense companies to establish a production line in India for Iron Dome interceptors, according to reports from India. Currently, Rafael manufactures these interceptors at a facility in northern Israel and has recently started missile production in the United States in partnership with Raytheon. The U.S. plant supplies interceptors for the U.S. Marine Corps' new air defense system and can supplement Israeli production if needed.

India has purchased the Barak 8 air defense system, developed jointly by Israel and India, for its Air Force, Navy, and Army, but uses a local short-range air defense system. Rafael's planned production in India aims to lower costs, support additional sales to other countries, and strengthen Rafael's position with Indian authorities. India requires foreign defense firms to manufacture locally as a condition for selling to its military and to export from India to boost its economy.

In addition to Rafael, Israeli company Elbit produces Hermes 900 and Hermes 450 drones in India and supplies components for Israeli Air Force squadrons. The increased missile and drone attacks by Iran on Israel and Gulf states have led to expanded use of Iron Dome beyond its original scenarios. An Israeli Iron Dome battery has been deployed in the United Arab Emirates, assisting in intercepting Iranian rocket, missile, and drone attacks, as confirmed by Israeli Transport Minister Merav Cohen at a recent conference.

Global demand for air defense systems is rising, and production in India could help Rafael overcome current political resistance to Israeli defense purchases. This move is expected to enhance Rafael's export capabilities and deepen defense cooperation between Israel and India.