One of only nine countries: Israeli arms manufacturers storm the US

More than 20 Israeli defense companies showcased new developments at the AUSA 2026 exhibition in Washington, racing for a share of the US defense budget that could reach $1.5 trillion. Among the systems: Rafael's Sky Sonic hypersonic interceptor, the armed FIRE STORM 250 drone, and drone interception systems. Outside the exhibition, protests against Israel took place, and demonstrators interrupted the US Secretary of Defense's speech.

More than 20 Israeli defense companies presented new developments at the AUSA 2026 exhibition in Washington, the largest ground forces exhibition in the US. The goal: to secure a share of the US defense budget, which according to President Trump is expected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2027. Israel is one of only nine countries that have established national pavilions at the exhibition, alongside Norway, Denmark, South Korea, Australia, Canada, Germany, France, and Greece. The Israeli presence comes against the backdrop of a record year in defense exports of $19.2 billion in 2025. Among the notable developments: Rafael's Sky Sonic hypersonic missile interceptor, the armed FIRE STORM 250 drone by Israel Aerospace Industries in collaboration with SIG SAUER, and the HawkGuard active defense system against drones. Outside the exhibition, protests against Israel's policy in Gaza took place, and six protesters interrupted a panel by US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, shouting at him, including "children in Gaza are starving."