Israel Moves to Produce Smart Bombs Locally to Reduce US Dependence

Israel's prolonged conflict has highlighted its heavy reliance on American-made munitions, prompting the Israeli defense establishment to significantly expand local production of smart bombs. For the first time, Israel plans to manufacture JDAM kits domestically, which are guidance systems that convert conventional bombs into precision weapons. This move aims to close long-standing supply gaps, replenish stockpiles, and reduce dependence on the US for critical components needed in sustained warfare.

Smart bombs encompass a wide range of munitions differing in weight, range, and targeting methods. The JDAM, produced by Boeing, uses GPS and inertial navigation to guide bombs accurately to targets under any weather conditions. Israel also employs smaller, glide-capable bombs like the SDB, and laser-guided Paveway bombs that home in on laser-designated targets. In addition to American systems, Israel has developed its own precision munitions such as Rafael's SPICE family, which uses electro-optical targeting to identify and strike targets even when GPS is unavailable.

To enhance operational safety against enemy air defenses, Israel uses stand-off weapons like the Rampage missile, developed by Israel Aerospace Industries and Elbit Systems. This long-range air-to-ground missile allows strikes on high-value targets from a safe distance. Other Israeli-made munitions include Elbit's concrete-penetrating MPR bombs and Rafael's electro-optical Spike missiles, including the Spike NLOS variant capable of hitting targets beyond line of sight.

The push for greater self-reliance in munitions predates the current conflict. A State Comptroller report from May revealed that over two decades, Israel lost domestic production capabilities for key raw materials due to preference for cheaper foreign procurement. This increased dependence on foreign suppliers limited Israel's operational freedom and endangered soldiers during combat. The report also noted that stockpiles were below targets before October 7, 2023, and that a 2021 plan to double production lines lacked funding.

Despite Israel's advanced defense industries, much of the Air Force's heavy munitions still come from the US, often financed by American aid. In intense conflicts, Israel rapidly consumes large quantities of munitions, relying not only on existing stock but also on resupply from the US. This dependency carries political risks, as the US government can delay or block shipments, as occurred in 2024 when the Biden administration postponed heavy bomb deliveries amid disputes over operations in Rafah.