Following reports that the IDF is not prepared for war, the Ministry of Defense is proceeding with an extensive purchase of artillery missiles. They will acquire tens of thousands of 155mm missiles from "Elbit Systems" for a quarter of a billion NIS. The Procurement Administration (MANHAR) at the Ministry of Defense and "Elbit Systems" announced yesterday (Sunday) the signing of a new and broad agreement for the procurement of artillery missiles with a diameter of 155mm, intended for the IDF's artillery corps.
The Director-General of the Ministry of Defense, Major General (Res.) Eyal Zamir, confirmed the deal, estimated at around 250 million NIS, which includes tens of thousands of missiles. The production of the missiles will take place in "Elbit Systems" facilities in Yokneam, Haifa, and Ramat HaSharon, and their delivery is expected during the year 2024. The Deputy Director-General and Head of the Procurement Administration in the Ministry of Defense, Ze'ev Landau, stated: "The production line of missile armament is a vital line that the Ministry of Defense has invested in for many years."
Elbit Systems will supply tens of thousands of shells to the IDF
The agreement with "Elbit Systems" will strengthen the IDF's readiness and preparedness for various combat scenarios, with hundreds of millions of NIS invested in the production of blue-and-white equipment. The emphasis will be on enhancing the peripheral industries and preserving the capabilities of local ammunition production. Udi Vered, CEO of the Ground Systems Division at Elbit Systems, stated: "Elbit Systems is proud to serve as a leading supplier to the Ministry of Defense and the IDF, supporting their ongoing operational needs."
From the Ministry of Defense, it was reported: "The expansion and upgrade of our infrastructure enable accelerated production of a variety of high-quality solutions. We continue to implement the strategic approach that supports the local economy and employment throughout the country, from Kiryat Shmona in the Galilee to Ramat Beka in the Negev."
The Americans emptied the ammunition depots
The purchase of the missiles from Intel is being made after the U.S. army emptied the stockpiles of ammunition it held in Israel as a reserve. In recent years, the U.S. army stored tens of thousands of missiles and munitions components in warehouses throughout the country, intended for combat in the Middle East and available for use by Israel in emergency cases.
Following the war in Ukraine and the global shortage of missiles, the U.S. transferred its ammunition from Israel to Ukraine to assist the Ukrainian army. As a result, the IDF had to embark on reacquiring missiles, which was done through Elbit, as mentioned.
The purchase within Israel keeps the money within the country and provides job opportunities not only for Elbit Systems' employees but also for those in the surrounding areas. Therefore, it is a successful deal that benefits the Israeli economy.