Guy Barlav Appointed CEO of Israel Aerospace Industries by Board Approval

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) announced that its board of directors approved the appointment of retired Brigadier General Guy Barlav as the company's new CEO. Barlav, currently IAI's Vice President and head of the Missile and Space Systems Division, will replace Boaz Levy, who is set to become the board chairman in May 2026. The appointment now awaits final approval from the Appointments Committee, Defense Minister Israel Katz, and Regional Development Minister Dudi Amsalem, who oversees the Government Companies Authority.

Barlav has served in senior ground forces roles in the Israel Defense Forces before retiring at the rank of Brigadier General. He joined IAI in 2016, became acting head of the Missile and Space Systems Division in 2020, and was promoted to Vice President and division head in 2021. Under his leadership, the division developed significant technological advancements crucial to Israel's defense.

Born in 1969, Barlav holds a bachelor's degree in behavioral sciences and business management from Ben-Gurion University and a master's degree in security studies from the National Security College at the University of Haifa. He also graduated from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. Upon his appointment, Barlav expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and emphasized the company's transformation and record-breaking achievements over the past decade. He highlighted the ongoing challenge to realize IAI's full potential and expand its presence in existing and new markets.

This leadership change comes amid IAI's continued growth and strategic importance to Israel's national security and defense industry.