Former IDF Brigadier General Launches Promising Cybersecurity Startup Sweet
A 51-year-old former IDF Brigadier General, who served 26 years in the military's elite cyber units, has founded a cybersecurity startup named Sweet. After graduating with a degree in electronic engineering and computer science from Tel Aviv University, he joined Unit 8200 and held various leadership roles in offensive cyber operations before transitioning to defense as the IDF's Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). In this role, he managed around 2,500 personnel responsible for cybersecurity under the Telecommunications Directorate.
He retired from the IDF in early 2022, having reached the rank of Brigadier General, and soon after established Sweet in early 2023. The company develops a cloud security platform that detects vulnerabilities and real-time threats, including protection against unauthorized actions by autonomous AI agents. Sweet currently employs about 120 people across Israel and the United States and has raised approximately $120 million from investors such as Evolution Partners and Galil Partners. The startup already generates multimillion-dollar annual revenues and serves major clients in the U.S. market, aiming to become a cybersecurity leader comparable to CrowdStrike.
The founder emphasizes the importance of diversity within his company, employing veterans from elite units like 8200 and 81 alongside individuals from varied backgrounds, including women, Arabs, and those from lower socioeconomic statuses. He believes this diversity fosters resilience and innovation. Reflecting on the evolving cyber threat landscape, he sees more opportunities for defenders than risks from attackers, especially with the rise of AI technologies.
On a personal note, he grew up in Tel Aviv and Herzliya, experienced the loss of both parents to cancer, and pursued excellence academically and professionally. He maintains an active lifestyle by running regularly despite disliking it. His leadership in Israel’s cyber defense and transition to entrepreneurship highlight the growing synergy between military experience and high-tech innovation in Israel.
