Israeli defense exports reach record $12.5 billion, 25% boost from Abraham Accords ties
Israel's defense exports reached a record $12.5 billion in 2022, the Ministry of Defense announced last week.
The ministry’s report noted that sales in 2022 had increased by 50% compared to the previous three years. In addition, the export volume had reportedly doubled compared to a decade ago.
The historic Arab-Israeli Abraham Accords were reportedly responsible for the overall boost in the volume of defense sales. A full quarter of the Israeli defense export went to the Jewish state’s new Arab allies, including United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco.
Despite its tiny size, Israel ranks among the world’s leading defense technology exporters, with India as one of its largest markets.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant presented the new data as evidence of the Jewish state’s excellent military technology capabilities.
“The remarkable data unveiled by the Israeli defense establishment, reaching new heights in defense exports, showcases the State of Israel's strength and excellent technological capabilities,” said Gallant. “Through the creativity and innovation of both the Israeli defense establishment and the Ministry of Defense, we not only outpace our adversaries but also sustain our qualitative edge.”
Dir.-Gen. of Israel’s Defense Ministry, Eyal Zamir, argued that global instability fueled the demand for Israeli defense systems.
“Global instability increases the demand for Israeli air defense systems, drones, UAVs and missiles, and we continually work to preserve our capabilities and strengthen them.”
European demand for Israeli military technology has allegedly increased following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Germany reportedly intends to invest almost 4 billion euros in Israel’s long-range Arrow-3 missile defense system.
In addition, new NATO member Finland announced in April that it would acquire the Israeli David’s Sling aerial defense system amid growing tensions between Russia and the West.
The All Israel News Staff is a team of journalists in Israel.