The two companies signed a cooperation agreement for the sale of two of IAI’s cutting-edge multispectral electro-optical satellites with better than 0.5-meter resolution, a long lifespan, and high imaging performance.
This landmark deal represents a significant step forward in space technology and cooperation between the two companies. Israel has a number of spy satellites in space – optical and SAR. The last one to be launched is the Ofek 13, launched in March 2023.
The Ofek 13 satellite was developed based on the experience of the defense establishment and IAI in the production of earlier satellites in the Ofek series, which have been launched since 1988.
The IMoD’s Space and Satellite Administration has led the development and production of the satellite and its launcher. The development process also includes the IDF’s 9900 Intelligence Unit and the Israeli Air Force. IAI is the prime contractor for the development of the satellite, launcher, and ground station monitoring system. The System Missiles and Space Group, led by the Space division, operates the project alongside ELTA, an IAI subsidiary, and the MLM division. The launch engines were developed by Rafael Advanced Systems and Tomer, a government-owned company.
The space cooperation agreement is another sign of the very close defense relations between Israel and Azerbaijan.
