The new ‘Reshef’ ships, part of the Sa’ar-class, will replace the ageing Sa’ar 4.5-class vessels, known as “Nirit,” which have served for four decades. Developed in collaboration with the Israeli Navy, the ‘Reshef’ ships integrate cutting-edge weapon systems from Israel’s defence industry, ensuring superior naval capabilities for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF).
Production will take place in Israel over the next six years, with an option to expand the fleet in the future. Manufacturing the ships locally is expected to enhance national security, maintain operational independence, and secure hundreds of jobs in Israel’s defence sector.
Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, Director General of the IMOD, highlighted the strategic importance of the agreement. “The ‘Reshef’ agreement represents an integration of security, economic, and industrial priorities,” he said. He emphasised that these vessels will expand the Israeli Navy’s maritime capabilities while reinforcing the country’s exclusive strategic production line for combat vessels.
Maj. Gen. David Saar Salama, Commander of the Israeli Navy, along with other senior officials, attended the signing ceremony in Tel Aviv. Representatives from Israel Shipyards, including Chairman Samy Katsav and CEO Eitan Zucker, were also present to mark this significant milestone in Israel’s naval modernisation programme.
Zamir also pointed to the global interest in the ‘Reshef’ ships, anticipating that other nations will follow Israel’s lead in acquiring these advanced combat vessels. He noted that such interest could further enhance Israel’s defence exports and technological reputation.
