Israel has approved a $1.5 billion initiative to accelerate the production of main battle tanks and armored support vehicles as part of a five-year pathway to enhance its ground capabilities amid the ongoing war in Gaza.
The Armored Vehicle Acceleration Project, announced by Defense Minister Israel Katz and Defense Ministry Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram, aligns with Tel Aviv’s broader objective of modernizing its military capabilities through increased production and improved infrastructure.
The initiative will expand assembly lines, upgrade depot facilities, and invest in local defense businesses.
It also seeks to bolster economic resilience by revitalizing manufacturing hubs across Israel’s periphery.
Among the vehicles covered by this effort is the latest version of Merkava, the Israel Defense Forces’ flagship battle tank, which features AI-enabled components, advanced sensors, and increased firepower.
Other battle-tested platforms included are the Namer tracked armored personnel carrier, which is based on the Merkava chassis, as well as the Eitan armored fighting vehicle, a newer, 8×8 wheeled system also modeled after the Merkava.
According to the Israeli defense ministry, the decision to boost the production and integration of said fleets is driven by their operational success during the Swords of Iron War – the nation’s almost two-year conflict with Palestinian terrorist group Hamas.
The vehicles have already logged more than one million kilometers (621,371 miles) in combat since the Gaza operation began in October 2023.
The ministry also highlighted that the strategy reflects a commitment to maintaining the Middle Eastern country’s technological independence and ensuring the readiness of its military forces in the face of evolving security challenges.
With Tel Aviv’s Defense Procurement Committee’s endorsement, the plan now awaits corresponding approval from the Joint Committee for the Defense Budget.
Upon final approval, the Ministry of Defense will proceed with procurement contracts “worth billions of shekels” to implement the project.
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