Thailand receives IWI's ARBEL anti-drone solution

IWI has delivered its ARBEL Anti-Drone System to Thailand's Defense Ministry following Bangkok's approval of a $104.4 million emergency defense fund. The system integrates into existing rifles, using standard ammunition to engage aerial threats up to 450 meters. Thai forces received on-site training and are discussing additional orders.

IWI (Israel Weapon Industries) has delivered its ARBEL Anti-Drone System (ADS) to Thailand's Defense Ministry, following Thailand's approval of a $104.4 million emergency defense fund for military equipment and border reinforcements along the Cambodian border. Thai forces integrated the system into their existing rifles after receiving on-site training from IWI officials. The ARBEL system, developed over nearly a decade, transforms standard infantry rifles into precision-guided interceptors capable of engaging aerial threats up to 450 meters using standard 5.56 mm ammunition. IWI states the system increases hit probability by two to three times for static and moving targets. The company reports that Thai officials are discussing additional orders, and several other countries are in various procurement stages. The article also notes Thailand's broader modernization plans, including procurement of Israeli Rampage missiles, Elbit Systems equipment, and HIMARS artillery upgrades.