Defense Ministry works toward future of Israel's defense sector, plans for munitions independence

The Defense Ministry met with CEOs of leading defense-tech startups to discuss Israel's defense strategy, focusing on munitions independence, innovation, and expanding exports. Orders reached approximately $330 million, double the amount from the same period in 2025. Director General Amir Baram emphasized the need for domestic production and cooperation between startups and major manufacturers. Experts also urged companies to enter the Australian and New Zealand markets.

Israel's Defense Ministry convened a meeting with CEOs of leading defense-tech startups to outline the country's long-term defense strategy, centered on achieving munitions independence, strengthening technological edge, and boosting exports. Director General Amir Baram told industry leaders that Israel aims to expand domestic production and innovation, emphasizing that operational capability cannot depend on uncontrolled supply chains. The ministry revealed that orders to defense-tech companies reached approximately $330 million, double the figure from the same period in 2025. Baram called for collaboration between startups and major manufacturers, rejecting a choice between the two, and announced support for entrepreneurs, investors, and exports. The meeting included senior officials and representatives from companies like Xtend, SpectralX, and SpearUAV. Separately, experts at a Haifa conference urged Israeli startups to enter the Australian and New Zealand markets, citing available budgets and demand for innovation. The push comes amid European pushback against Israel's defense industry, with Baram working to broaden partnerships, including with the United States.