Not 'Iron Dome' — Israel finds a new export hit

Israel's SPYDER air defense system, produced by Rafael, has become a sought-after export product. The Czech Republic is preparing a new multi-billion dollar deal, and Romania has already signed a contract worth €2 billion. The system is sold to Europe, Asia, and Africa, with interest growing amid international tensions.

Israel's SPYDER air defense system, developed by Rafael, has become a key export product. The Czech Republic is negotiating a new multi-billion dollar deal for additional SPYDER systems and control systems. Previously, Romania signed a major contract worth about €2 billion. The SPYDER system, launched in 2005, is designed to intercept drones, aircraft, helicopters, and short-range ballistic missiles using PYTHON and DERBY missiles. Its All in One configuration allows the entire complex to be mounted on a single vehicle. Besides the Czech Republic and Romania, buyers include the Philippines, UAE, and Morocco. Greece signed a €3.1 billion deal for SPYDER and David's Sling systems. SPYDER's success is attributed to it not being part of the IDF's multi-layered air defense system, simplifying export control, and being entirely Israeli, requiring no US approval. Air defense systems accounted for 29% of Israel's defense exports last year, remaining the leading sector. Europe remains the largest market, taking 36% of exports last year, followed by the Asia-Pacific region with 32%. Demand is fueled by wars and international tensions, including threats from a terrorist state and concerns about China.