Elbit Systems has secured an $80 million contract for the development and installation of advanced electronic warfare (EW) self-defense suites for Israel's F-16I fleet. This contract adds to a series of defense agreements the company has secured in the past year, including deals for equipping aircraft and helicopters.
The Israeli Ministry of Defense, through MAFAT (Directorate of Defence Research & Development) and the Defense Procurement Directorate (Manhar), in collaboration with the Israeli Air Force, recently launched a project to develop and equip advanced defense systems for the F-16I "Sufa" fighter jets. Elbit Systems will lead the project, integrating cutting-edge technologies designed to maximize protection in complex combat scenarios.
The defense suite will include several advanced systems:
- Electronic Warfare System: Provides advanced capabilities for disrupting and neutralizing threats.
- Electro-Optical Missile Warning and Launch Detection System: Enables early identification of threats, both from other aircraft and surface-to-air missiles.
- Advanced Chaff and Flare Dispensing System: Adds an extra layer of protection by deceiving heat-seeking missiles.
This initiative aligns with a series of strategic deals promoted by the Ministry of Defense to strengthen Israel's defense industry autonomy and reduce reliance on external suppliers. These efforts aim to ensure the IDF maintain their qualitative edge and operational readiness under any condition.
"We are proud to have been selected once again by the Ministry of Defense and the Israeli Air Force to equip the F-16I fleet with our most advanced self-defense suites," said Oren Sabag, CEO of Elbit Systems. "In today's global landscape, safeguarding aerial platforms is a necessity. Elbit Systems has invested heavily in recent years, strengthening its position as a global leader in aerial platform defense with an extensive and advanced portfolio of solutions installed on various aircraft platforms."
