Israel expects to secure new contracts for its air and missile defence systems from European countries within weeks, as governments across the continent continue to strengthen their militaries amid security concerns linked to Russia's war in Ukraine.
Moshe Patel, director and general manager of the Israeli Missile Defense Organization, said interest in Israeli defence technology across Europe remains strong and is accelerating.
"There's a huge interest from Europe, from Western Europe," Patel told reporters on the sidelines of last week's Berlin Air Show.
While declining to identify the countries involved, Patel said at least one contract is expected to be signed within weeks.
"And there are discussions that maybe by the end of the year we're going to hear about more nations," he said. "So, it looks like the decision-making by those nations is expedited."
European governments have increased defence spending since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, with many countries seeking stronger protection against missile and drone attacks.
Patel said the conflict has been a major factor behind growing interest in Israeli systems.
"It's mainly (driven) by what's happening between Russia and Ukraine," he said.
He added that developments in the Middle East were also influencing defence planning.
"Of course, they're looking very carefully what is happening in Iran and whatever will be good against Russia could be good for Iran. Whatever they're doing, it will be good for all those kinds of threats."
Russia has repeatedly rejected accusations that it poses a threat to European countries.
Israel has become a major supplier of advanced air defence technology to Europe in recent years.
Germany has purchased the Arrow missile defence system, developed by Israel Aerospace Industries in cooperation with the U.S. Missile Defense Agency. The system is designed to intercept intermediate-range ballistic missiles.
Finland has acquired David's Sling, which is intended to counter short- and medium-range ballistic missile threats.
Patel said European interest is not limited to those systems.
Asked whether countries were looking at Arrow or David's Sling, he said there was also demand for Iron Dome, Israel's well-known short-range air defence system designed to intercept rockets and other nearby threats.
"It's a huge advantage to those nations that have enemies right on their borders," Patel said. "The ability to protect a city, protect a strategic area."
Patel declined to disclose the potential value of the upcoming agreements but suggested they would be significant.
The discussions are "about not minor numbers", he said.
His comments highlight the growing role of Israeli defence technology in Europe's security planning as governments seek to adapt to a rapidly changing threat environment.
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