Israel tests cutting-edge drone interception systems to counter evolving threats
Eight Israeli companies showcased new technologies in a first-of-its-kind trial, aiming to swiftly deploy solutions against the rising drone menace.
The Israeli Ministry of Defense, in collaboration with the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, conducted this week a first-of-its-kind test to evaluate and demonstrate new drone interception capabilities. This initiative was prompted by the evolving threat of drones and a directive from the Defense Minister to explore solutions through an expedited competition. Eight Israeli companies, from defense giants to startups, participated in the trials, showcasing their technological solutions for drone interception.
The experiment - led by the Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D) - took place at a testing site in southern Israel, focusing on intercepting drones across various ranges and altitudes. Systems that successfully meet the threshold criteria during the demonstration phase will proceed to accelerated development and operational assessment. The goal is to deploy new operational capabilities within a matter of months.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized that the drone threat is multi-arena, originating from Iran, which supplies drones to Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq, and also directly deploys them. He highlighted the urgency of a concentrated national effort to develop operational solutions swiftly.
Minister Gallant’s directive triggered significant investments by the Ministry of Defense, totaling hundreds of millions of shekels, in the development, procurement, and deployment of drone interception technologies. The Ministry is committed to establishing a streamlined process for rapid contracting and operational deployment of effective solutions from both large industries and startups.
This commitment aligns with the broader strategic objective of establishing a comprehensive defensive response to the drone threat, similar to the multi-layered defense system protecting the country from missiles. This system will be adaptable to the rapidly evolving nature of drone technology.
The competition showcased several notable interception systems:
Elbit Systems: IRON HAWK, utilizing an interceptor drone.
Israel Aerospace Industries: "Precise Falcon" and another advanced solution for long-range interception.
Rafael: TYPHOON, a remote-controlled 30mm weapon system for intercepting various aerial threats, with potential for long-range interception and integration into strategic site protection.
Aerobotics: In partnership with Rafael, developing an advanced reusable interceptor drone system.
Xtend: In collaboration with AXIOMA and Elbit Systems, developing an advanced anti-drone system.
General Robotics: PITBULL for medium-range projectile interception.
Smartshooter: Unique development enabling precise guidance for a wide range of interception tools and threats.
Fortem: American company collaborating with Elbit Systems to develop a network-based interceptor drone.
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These solutions are not related to laser or "Iron Beam" systems, which are being developed concurrently to counter short-range rockets. The ultimate goal is to create a multi-layered system that effectively addresses the threats posed by rockets, drones, and unmanned aerial vehicles, similar to the existing missile defense system, with the flexibility to adapt to the constantly changing landscape of aerial threats.
