Israel’s defense exports reached an all-time high of $14.7 billion in 2024, a 13% increase from 2023, despite mounting international criticism over its military campaign in Gaza, the Defense Ministry announced Wednesday.
Over half of the sales were to Europe, which accounted for 54% of all exports, a sharp rise from 35% the previous year.
The ministry attributed this rise to growing European demand, fueled by Russia’s war in Ukraine and concerns over reduced U.S. defense commitments to NATO allies.
Missiles, rockets, and air defense systems comprised 48% of sales, up from 36% in 2023. Other exports included vehicles (9%), satellites (8%), electronic warfare systems (8%), and cyber technologies (4%). More than half the contracts were valued at over $100 million.
Sales to Abraham Accords nations jumped to 12%, while Asia-Pacific made up 23% and North America 9%.
Defense Minister Israel Katz linked the export surge to Israel’s operational performance in Gaza and against other regional threats.
“This tremendous achievement is a direct result of the successes of the IDF and the defense industries against Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, the ayatollah regime in Iran, and in other arenas where we operate against Israel’s enemies,” Katz said. “The world sees Israeli strength and seeks to be a partner in it.”
“The new record in Israeli defense exports, achieved during a year of war, reflects more than anything else the growing global appreciation for Israeli technology’s proven capabilities,” said Major General Amir Baram, the director general of Israel’s Defense Ministry.
Despite the export gains, some European governments are reevaluating their ties with Israel.
Earlier this week, Spain canceled a missile deal with Israel worth approximately €285 million (about $310 million). Reports suggest this decision is part of Madrid’s efforts to reduce technological dependency on Israel in response to its military operations in Gaza.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said last week that Berlin would assess “whether what is happening in the Gaza Strip is compatible with international humanitarian law.” He added: “Further arms deliveries will be authorized based on the outcome of that review.”
