Israel orders defence firms to accelerate weapons production

Israel’s Defence Ministry has instructed the country’s major arms manufacturers to accelerate production of offensive and defensive weapons systems amid the war with Iran, a ministry spokeswoman confirmed on Thursday.

The ministry said Israel is preparing for prolonged fighting and the possible expansion of the conflict to additional fronts.

Industry representatives were presented with an operational situation report as well as short- and long-term procurement and rearmament plans, the ministry said.

The Israeli business newspaper Calcalist reported on Thursday that the relevant weapons are produced by companies including Elbit Systems, Israel Aerospace Industries, Rafael and Tomer. Products from these manufacturers are being used in Israeli strikes on Iran.

Among the key air defence systems whose production is to be accelerated are the Arrow 3 and Barak MX systems from Israel Aerospace Industries, as well as David’s Sling from Rafael.

According to the report, the increase in production is taking place alongside existing delivery commitments to foreign armed forces, many of which are accelerating procurement amid a global arms race and rising geopolitical tensions.