The role of defense R&D in strengthening Israel’s capabilities, technological superiority - opinion

Jacob Nagel argues that sustained investment in defense R&D is essential for Israel's technological superiority, referencing Netanyahu's new national security doctrine and the Nagel Committee's recommendations for increased budgets in AI, quantum technology, and space.

Jacob Nagel, a former National Security Advisor, argues that sustained investment in defense research and development is critical for maintaining Israel's technological superiority and national security. The article references Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recently published national security doctrine document, which Nagel helped shape through his work on the Nagel Committee on the Defense Budget. Nagel explains that the new document calls for reducing dependence on external sources, strengthening domestic force development, and building capabilities in quantum technology, artificial intelligence, and space. He notes that achieving these goals requires a substantial increase in the defense budget, particularly for the Directorate of Defense Research and Development (MAFAT). Nagel cites independent studies claiming that every shekel invested in R&D generates at least seven times that amount in future sales, primarily through defense exports. The article also highlights competition for the technological workforce between military and civilian sectors, especially in fields like autonomous systems, AI, and advanced computing.