In a significant move to bolster its military capabilities, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel will invest approximately $110 billion over the next decade to establish an independent arms industry. This initiative marks a strategic shift aimed at reducing the country’s reliance on foreign military supplies, especially from its longstanding ally, the United States.
During a military ceremony at an air base in southern Israel, Netanyahu revealed plans to allocate a total of 350 billion shekels to facilitate the development of advanced weapons systems. He emphasized the necessity of achieving self-sufficiency in defense capabilities amid a backdrop of strained military resources due to ongoing conflicts across multiple fronts.
Israel’s arms procurement has historically depended heavily on American military aid, which includes $3.3 billion in funding and $500 million for missile defense cooperation slated for 2025. However, recent geopolitical tensions and changes in international attitudes towards Israel, including some countries halting arms sales in response to the conflict in Gaza, have prompted Israeli leaders to reconsider their dependence on foreign suppliers.
Netanyahu’s remarks highlight a broader goal of ensuring that Israel maintains a competitive edge on the battlefield. He stated that “the finest minds in our defense industries are hard at work” developing systems that will strengthen Israel’s military capabilities in future conflicts. His speech also alluded to a controversial “super-Sparta” approach he proposed in September, which aimed to foster a sense of isolation that would galvanize Israeli self-reliance in defense.
The prime minister underscored the strategic importance of Israel’s status as a regional power, and in some areas, a global one, asserting that strength fosters alliances and peace. “Peace is made with the strong, not with the weak,” he noted, reiterating the significance of a robust military presence.
Looking ahead, Israel’s defense budget for 2026 is expected to reach around $35 billion, accounting for roughly 16 percent of the national budget of $208 billion. This marks a sharp increase compared to previous allocations, reflecting the urgent need for enhanced military capabilities amidst ongoing regional instability and conflict.
As Israel gears up for this ambitious initiative, the focus remains on fortifying its defense infrastructure to ensure long-term security and readiness in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
