The Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMOD) held its 15th annual Defense Export Control Agency (DECA) conference, bringing together hundreds of major defense exporters.
The conference, a key event in Israel's defense industry, focused on responsible and secure defense exports, while updating company representatives on evolving regulatory requirements and export control policies.
Racheli Chen, director of DECA, presented the agency's operational data since October 2023, revealing that DECA has issued 13.497 marketing licences and 5.677 new export licences. Currently, 2.192 defence exporters are registered with IMOD.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said that “if anyone needed definitive proof of the importance of a robust defense industry and its crucial contribution to Israel’s security in the air, sea and land, the current war has provided it in full force. Every successful interception by Iron Dome, every threat neutralized by David's Sling, and every life saved by the Trophy Active Protection System on the battlefield demonstrates the power of our defense industries.".
“The importance of maintaining these capabilities, as demonstrated by the production lines of our defense industries, cannot be overstated. Those who understand the importance of these industries and their enormous contribution to achieving our war aims also recognize a fundamental truth: To ensure that our defense industries can continue to meet the operational needs of the IDF, both in times of war and in general, it is crucial to strengthen defense exports., which are vital to production, research and development, and force creation processes,” he added.
Israel’s Defense Ministry Director General, Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir noted that “This conference is taking place in the midst of a war unprecedented in intensity and scope. We are facing multiple fronts simultaneously, challenging the defense establishment and the IDF, requiring us to maximize our capabilities. Israeli defense industries have demonstrated extraordinary mobilization in support of our primary wartime goal: ensuring operational continuity and providing the IDF with sustained capabilities.”
“We are in the midst of a global arms race, another front that we must address. The Iron Sword War has shown how Israel can be isolated, with possible restrictions on air and sea access. Unfortunately, we have had to deal with both overt and covert embargoes, even from those considered our closest allies. This reinforces the importance of blue and white independence through Israeli defense industries, crucial before October 7, but even more critical now. We will continue to seek greater independence of production, more significant investment in Israeli industries, and a reduction of essential dependencies. This remains a top priority for the Ministry of Defense,” he added.
“Defense exports have been breaking records in recent years. Therefore, our second main goal is to support and increase defense exports to boost Israel’s economy as well as research and development. DECA is a full partner in the flourishing defense exports and the success of defense industries. I commend the exporters for understanding the need for responsible export practices.
“Our enemies on all fronts thought they could harm us, believing us to be weak. The tide has turned thanks to the heroism and sacrifice of IDF soldiers, commanders and fighters. We have eliminated the leaders of the Hamas and Hezbollah terrorist organizations. Our enemies, including their leaders, are more damaged and weakened than before. “While we have significantly affected their capabilities, our mission is incomplete,” he said in closing.
DECA Director Racheli Chen thanked “the creative and dedicated work of our defense exporters, as we maintain our technological edge, providing the IDF with cutting-edge systems and equipment while positioning Israel as a critical influence in the international arena. The defense export control process includes a thorough professional assessment, incorporating security, political, legal and ethical aspects aligned with Israel’s national security interests.”