Overview
- Israel’s Ministry of Defense on Nov. 20 signed a multi‑billion‑dollar procurement with Rafael to accelerate Iron Dome interceptor production.
- The contract draws on an $8.7 billion U.S. package passed in April 2024, including $5.2 billion earmarked for air defenses.
- Rafael and Raytheon’s R2S joint venture opened a Camden, Arkansas facility on Nov. 21, with Raytheon announcing a $1.25 billion award to supply Tamir interceptors to Israel.
- Officials said the buy will deliver a substantial quantity of interceptors to replenish Israel Defense Forces stocks after intensive operational use.
- The effort formalizes joint production in Israel and the United States, with Rafael as prime and U.S. industry support intended to ensure a robust American production base for current and future customers.