Barlev has served for the past six years as executive vice-president and general manager of IAI’s Systems Missiles & Space Group. He will succeed Boaz Levy, who was appointed chairman of the company’s board in May 2026.
The appointment still requires approval from the Appointments Committee, Defence Minister Israel Katz and Regional Development Minister Dudi Amsalem, who is responsible for the Government Companies Authority. IAI also thanked Moshe Levy for his work as acting chief executive during the interim period.
Barlev joined IAI in 2016 after a career in the Israel Defense Forces’ Land Forces, where he held several command positions and retired as a brigadier general. He was appointed head of the Systems Missiles & Space Group in 2020.
The group has overseen a range of missile, space and other defence technology programmes during his tenure. IAI said some of those systems played a significant role in protecting Israel during the recent war.
“The Board expressed its confidence in Barlev’s capabilities and experience to lead the Company as it maintains momentum and navigates through global changes, while addressing both the business and technological challenges anticipated in the coming years, including the planned IPO,” IAI Chairman Boaz Levy said. The statement places the planned listing among the main business issues facing the incoming chief executive.
“Guy has successfully managed the Systems Missiles & Space Group for approximately six years,” Levy said. “He has deep familiarity with both the international and local defense markets, as well as the Company’s customers’ requirements.”
Levy also said: “Under his leadership, the Group reached new heights and developed groundbreaking technologies, some of which played a significant role during the recent war in protecting Israel and ensuring the country’s technological superiority on the battlefield.” Barlev’s promotion keeps the top executive role within IAI’s existing senior management team.
“I would like to thank IAI’s Board of Directors for their trust and for selecting me as CEO,” Barlev said. “It is a great privilege to lead a company that serves as a national and strategic asset for the State of Israel.”
Barlev said IAI had changed significantly since he joined the company about a decade ago. “The Company has undergone a business transformation in recent years and achieved unprecedented records.”
“I look forward to the journey ahead, in fulfilling the company’s potential and strengthening our partnerships in both existing and new markets,” Barlev said. His appointment comes as IAI prepares to address both commercial and technological priorities identified by its board.
Born in 1969, Barlev holds a bachelor’s degree in behavioural sciences from Ben-Gurion University and a master’s degree in social sciences focused on security studies from the University of Haifa. He is also a graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.
