Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is in talks with Indian defense companies to set up a production line in the country for Iron Dome interceptors, according to recent reports in India.
Rafael currently produces the system’s interceptors at one of its plants in northern Israel, and last year a missile production line also began operating in the US in partnership with Raytheon. The American plant will supply interceptors for the Marines’ new air defense system and, if necessary, can reinforce production in Israel.
India bought the Israel Aerospace Industries Barak 8 air defense system for its air force, navy and army for billions of dollars. The system was developed jointly by the two countries, but India has equipped itself with a domestic air defense system for shorter ranges.
Production in India is expected to serve Rafael in sales to additional countries, lower costs, provide extra backup when needed to the other production lines, and also strengthen the company’s standing vis-a-vis the Indian establishment, which requires foreign defense companies not only to manufacture in India as a condition for selling their products to the local military, but also to export from there and thereby strengthen its economy.
Elbit also manufactures the Hermes 900 drones, known as “Star” in the Air Force, and the Hermes 450, known as “Zik,” in India, and has supplied components from there for the additional Star squadron recently opened in the Air Force.
Iron Dome sees increased use during Operation Roaring Lion
The launches of Iranian missiles and UAVs at Israel and Gulf states have led to increased use of Iron Dome during Operation Roaring Lion, also in scenarios for which it was not originally designed.
Initially, foreign sources and reports said that an Israeli Iron Dome battery was deployed in the Emirates and helped intercept rockets, missiles and UAVs launched at it by Iran. These deployments were confirmed earlier this week by Transportation Minister Miri Regev during an appearance at the Israel Hayom conference,
Demand for air defense systems worldwide is rising, and supply from India could help Rafael overcome political opposition to procuring from Israel at present.