Drones from the event.
Photo Credit: Ariel Hermoni, Israel Ministry of Defense.
In a powerful display of cutting-edge defense innovation, the Israel Ministry of Defense’s (IMoD) Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D) has successfully completed a rigorous series of operational trials, putting nearly 20 advanced counter-drone technologies to the test.
In the heart of southern Israel, at a secured testing field shrouded in secrecy, the nation’s most advanced defense industries and cutting-edge startups unleashed a formidable array of counter-drone weaponry. From high-speed, precision-guided projectile systems to agile counter-drones engineered to hunt, intercept, and disable airborne threats, each technology was put to the ultimate test.
This high-stakes trial was more than just a demonstration—it was a declaration. A bold step forward in Israel’s unyielding mission to secure its skies, solidifying its place at the forefront of modern warfare. In an era where drones are rewriting the rules of battle, these innovations signal a new chapter in defense technology—one where the hunter becomes the hunted.
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The trials featured major defense contractors, including Elbit Systems, Rafael, and Israel Aerospace Industries, alongside several startups, showcasing their progress in developing technological solutions for drone interception. As part of the competition, the industries deployed interception system prototypes developed under DDR&D leadership, demonstrating drone interception capabilities at various ranges, speeds, and altitudes. Following the analysis of current trial results, the IMOD plans to select several technologies for accelerated development and production processes, aiming to deploy new operational capabilities immediately. Industry CEOs also attended the trials alongside senior IDF and Ministry officials.
Additionally, this trial is one of several initiatives through which the DDR&D is tackling the growing C-UAS threat. In partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate (IWTSD), the DDR&D is developing cutting-edge technologies for detecting and neutralizing UAS that endanger both nations. With more than twenty U.S. C-UAS experts from across the DoD participating in the blind test, this event plays a critical role in fostering cooperation between the nations, rapidly enhancing joint defense capabilities, and improving the chances of success. Recognizing this, Congress has reinforced the partnership to advance cooperative research and development efforts, further strengthening the shared commitment to countering this evolving threat.
“The UAV threat is an evolving and multi-arena threat that has expanded to all our combat sectors, led by Iran and its proxies,” said Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz. “This threat has already extracted a heavy human toll from us, which is why we have mobilized all tools to develop an effective response. The series of tests we conducted represents a national effort led by the DDR&D, with participation from major defense companies alongside innovative startups. Everyone has joined the mission with the understanding that defending Israel’s skies is a top priority. Against our enemies, we are committed to continue advancing and introducing new capabilities to the battlefield in the near term. We will act to ensure maximum protection for our citizens and forces on the ground against UAVs from Iran, Yemen, Lebanon, and any arena where we may be required to respond.”
