UMSC plans large procurement of Iron Dome air defence system

The exact value of the deal remains unknown, but based on publicly available data, the cost of the interceptors alone may be close to USD 200 million.

These systems will mainly help protect units against cruise missiles, while also providing defense against drones, rockets, and artillery. According to the American government announcement published on the System for Award Management website, which discloses procurement contracts, the contract will be signed directly with Raytheon, the manufacturer of the Patriot missiles, and a partner of Rafael. A significant portion of the production will take place in the USA. Unlike the Iron Dome operated by the Air Force, the American system will also be equipped with an American radar.

The Marines have already conducted two rounds of tests with the Tamir interceptors, which impressed Americans with their ability to intercept cruise missiles and other targets. In contrast to the systems purchased by the Army, the Marines’ system, known as MRIC, is based on radars and control systems from American defense industries. This factor helped gain approval in Washington for the purchase of a system based on Israeli interceptors.

This marks the second Iron Dome procurement deal with the Americans. In 2019, the U.S. Army purchased two Iron Dome batteries in their Israeli configuration for USD 340 million.

Other countries that have purchased a full system include Azerbaijan and Romania. Romania will produce Iron Dome batteries under license in cooperation with the ROMAERO Company and Rafael. Cyprus is also in advanced negotiations for the purchase of several batteries.

Israeli sources have informed Defence Industry Europe that there is a surge of interest in the Israeli combat-proven air defense system.