In 2024, at the height of the “Swords of Iron” war, Israel achieved an all-time record in defense exports. This milestone was announced today (Wednesday) by the Ministry of Defense.
The Full Breakdown
Israel’s defense industries signed new contracts this year totaling $14.795 billion (about 52 billion shekels) — a 13% increase over the previous year, marking a record for the fourth year in a row.
Over the past five years, Israeli defense exports have surged by more than 100%.
- 56.8% of the deals were valued at over $100 million
- 9.5% were worth between $50–100 million
- 16.3% ranged from $10–50 million
- 17.4% were valued under $10 million
A dramatic rise was seen in European demand, with 54% of all contracts signed with European countries — up from 35% in 2023.
There was a sharp increase in demand for air defense systems, accounting for 48% of total exports. Satellite and space systems made up 8% of deals, compared to just 2% the previous year.
Armored and tactical vehicles represented 9% of exports.
The intelligence, data, and cyber sector comprised 4%; ammunition and munitions 3%; and firearms and launch systems 2%.
In contrast, drones, UAVs, and naval systems made up only 1% of total exports.
The report was presented to Defense Minister Israel Katz by the Director General of the Ministry of Defense, Maj. Gen. (res.) Amir Baram, along with Brig. Gen. (res.) Yair Kulas, head of SIBAT — the International Defense Cooperation Directorate.
According to the data:
- Asia accounted for 23% of exports
- Abraham Accords countries for 12%
- North America for 9%
- Africa for 1%
“Clear Superiority Over Any Threat”
Defense Minister Israel Katz praised the achievement: “Even in a difficult and complex year of war, Israel has set an all-time record in defense exports”.
He added: “This tremendous accomplishment is a direct result of the successes of the IDF and our defense industries against Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, the Ayatollah regime in Iran, and in other arenas where we confront Israel’s enemies,” .
He emphasized that the world recognizes Israel’s strength and wants to partner with it:
“We will continue strengthening the IDF and the Israeli economy through security innovation that guarantees clear superiority against any threat — anywhere, anytime.”
“Israeli Defense Systems Resonate Across the Middle East”
“The new record in Israeli defense exports, in a year of war, reflects above all the world’s growing appreciation for Israeli technological performance,” said Amir Baram, Director General of the Ministry of Defense.
“Over the past year, Israeli systems have resonated across the Middle East — more countries want to protect their citizens using Israeli-made defense technology,” he explained.
Baram added that in order to support the IDF’s immediate and long-term needs, it is essential to maintain the momentum in defense exports. This enables the military to acquire more systems, develop future generations of technology, and bolster Israel’s economy.
