The Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMOD), through its Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D) and in coordination with the Israeli Air Force (IAF), has signed a $55 million agreement with Elbit Systems to procure advanced protection systems for the IAF’s Black Hawk and Apache combat helicopters.
Under the five-year contract, the helicopters will be outfitted with state-of-the-art defensive technologies designed to enhance survivability in high-threat environments. These systems will include advanced capabilities for threat detection, disruption, and neutralization, as well as countermeasures against guided missile attacks.
This deal joins a series of procurement and force build-up contracts that the IMOD is advancing under the leadership of the Ministry’s Director General, Major General (Res.) Amir Baram.
Head of the R&D Department at the IMOD’s DDR&D, Brig. Gen. Yehuda Elmakayes remarked, “We are advancing cutting-edge technologies for aerial platform protection, focusing on DIRCM systems for the IAF helicopter fleet. This program builds on years of substantial investment in this critical domain and represents a significant technological breakthrough that addresses current and emerging threats. The DDR&D remains committed to further developing these capabilities alongside our partners in the IAF and industry to ensure IDF forces maintain operational freedom across all theaters.”
General Manager of Elbit Systems ISTAR & EW Division, Oren Sabag stated “We’re honored to continue providing the IDF with our advanced self-protection and DIRCM solutions that enhance both safety and operational capabilities of their Black Hawk and Apache helicopters. Our track record of successful implementations worldwide demonstrates these systems’ maturity and battlefield effectiveness. This contract further strengthens our strategic partnership with the Ministry of Defense and the IDF. It reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering technology that provides the highest level of protection for aircrews operating in hostile environments.”
