Elbit Systems
Elbit Systems Ltd. is an Israel-based multinational defense technology company specializing in the development and production of advanced military systems, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), electro-optical and electro-mechanical systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) solutions.[1] Headquartered in Haifa, the firm serves as a primary supplier of land-based equipment and UAVs to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), while exporting products to defense forces in over 80 countries across five continents.[2] With approximately 20,000 employees worldwide, Elbit reported revenues of $6.8 billion in 2024 and an order backlog exceeding $22 billion, underscoring its pivotal role in Israel's defense ecosystem and global security markets.[1][2] Key innovations from Elbit include the Hermes family of tactical UAVs, such as the Hermes 900, which provide persistent surveillance and precision strike capabilities in operational theaters.[1] The company's technologies have contributed to Israel's robust defense posture, enabling effective responses to threats through integrated systems for munitions, cyber defense, and avionics.[1] Notable achievements encompass major contracts, such as supplying diverse ammunition to the IDF valued at $340 million and international deals for rocket artillery systems, demonstrating sustained demand for its battle-tested solutions amid real-world conflicts.[3] Elbit Systems has faced controversies primarily from activist campaigns, including those affiliated with the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which target the company for its supply of equipment used by the IDF in operations against terrorist groups in Gaza and elsewhere; these efforts have led to protests, facility disruptions, and occasional contract cancellations in politically sensitive markets.[4][5] Despite such opposition, empirical evidence of Elbit's systems' performance in high-stakes environments has sustained partnerships with governments prioritizing operational efficacy, as evidenced by awards like a $917 million Australian Army contract for advanced weaponry.[6][7]
History
Founding and Early Development
Elbit Systems originated as Elbit Computers Ltd., established in 1966 in Haifa, Israel, through a joint initiative by Elron Electronic Industries and the Israel Ministry of Defense.[8][9] The founding combined private sector innovation with government technical resources to address military computing needs, reflecting Israel's early post-independence push to indigenize defense technologies amid regional security threats.[9][10] Elron Electronic Industries, founded in 1962 by Uzia Galil—a Romanian-born engineer who immigrated to Israel and graduated from the Technion—provided the entrepreneurial foundation and initial R&D capabilities.[11][12] Galil, who served as Elron's CEO until 1999, envisioned Elron as a hub for high-tech ventures, starting from a modest home laboratory and securing seed funding from investors like the Discount Investment Corporation.[13][14] This structure positioned Elbit to rapidly prototype hardware tailored for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), including early minicomputers designed for battlefield data processing and command systems.[15] In its formative phase through the 1970s, Elbit prioritized defense-oriented electronics, producing systems that enhanced IDF operational efficiency while beginning limited civilian adaptations to broaden revenue streams.[16] This period saw incremental scaling from a small team focused on core computing to a more diversified electronics provider, supported by domestic military contracts that accounted for the bulk of early output.[15] By the late 1970s, these foundations enabled Elbit to establish itself as a key player in Israel's defense industrial base, setting the stage for international expansion.[10]Expansion and Acquisitions
Elbit Systems has pursued strategic acquisitions to diversify its product portfolio, enhance technological capabilities, and expand its global footprint, transitioning from core electronics and computing origins to a comprehensive defense systems provider. These moves have integrated expertise in areas such as munitions, night vision, and underwater acoustics, contributing to revenue growth amid rising international demand for defense technologies.[17] A pivotal acquisition occurred in November 2018, when Elbit completed the purchase of IMI Systems Ltd., a former Israeli state-owned entity specializing in land-based systems and precision-guided munitions, for approximately $495 million (NIS 1.8 billion). This deal positioned Elbit as Israel's largest defense manufacturer by integrating IMI's artillery, rocket, and combat engineering technologies, thereby bolstering its terrestrial defense offerings.[18][19] In 2019, Elbit acquired the Harris Night Vision business from L3Harris Technologies for $350 million, gaining advanced electro-optical and image intensification technologies critical for soldier-worn and weapon-mounted systems. This enhanced Elbit's dominance in low-light and thermal imaging solutions for military applications.[20] Elbit further expanded its maritime and aerospace electronics capabilities in April 2021 through two key U.S.-focused deals. It acquired Sparton Corporation from Cerberus Capital Management for $380 million, incorporating Sparton's sonobuoy production and undersea warfare sensors, which are vital for anti-submarine detection used by the U.S. Navy and allies. Concurrently, Elbit Systems of America purchased the Rokar business from BAE Systems' U.S. subsidiary for $31 million, adding inertial measurement units and navigation systems for aircraft and missiles.[21][22] These acquisitions, alongside organic growth, have supported Elbit's establishment of subsidiaries across multiple countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, and Brazil, facilitating localized production and compliance with export regulations while tapping into diverse markets. By 2025, such strategies underpinned a reported order backlog exceeding $23 billion, reflecting sustained demand for integrated defense solutions.[23][17]Major Milestones and Challenges
Elbit Systems achieved significant technological advancements in the 2000s and 2010s, including the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) such as the Hermes series, which became integral to reconnaissance and combat operations, and contributions to Israel's Arrow 3 missile defense system and Ofek reconnaissance satellites.[1] In 2024, the company received the Israel Defense Prize for three innovative defense systems, recognizing breakthroughs in areas like directed energy and electro-optics.[3] Major contract wins underscored its growth, including a $200 million deal for Iron Beam laser interception systems, a $340 million ammunition contract, and a $600 million supply of Iron Fist active protection systems for Australia's Redback infantry vehicles, all awarded in 2024 amid heightened demand.[3] By 2025, Elbit secured a $1.635 billion contract with an undisclosed European nation for long-range artillery, unmanned aerial systems, intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) solutions, combat vehicle upgrades, and digitalization technologies.[24] The company also expanded its capabilities through strategic acquisitions, such as Sparton Corporation in 2021 for undersea warfare expertise and HNV in 2019 for night vision technologies, enhancing its portfolio in maritime and electro-optical domains.[1] In the U.S. market, Elbit America marked milestones like its first F-16 contract in 1993, helmet-mounted display (HMD) technology pioneering in 1996, and precision-guided munitions advancements by 2005, contributing to its role as a key supplier for U.S. platforms including Apache helicopters.[25] Elbit Systems has encountered challenges primarily from activist groups opposing its defense contracts with Israel, including repeated direct actions by Palestine Action in the UK, such as a 2024 break-in at an Elbit facility leading to burglary and violent disorder charges against seven individuals under anti-terrorism laws.[26] These incidents, part of broader campaigns like BDS targeting Elbit for its role in Israeli security systems, have resulted in facility occupations, vandalism, and legal lobbying by the company to pursue retrials in related cases.[27] In 2025, speculation arose over potential closures of UK sites amid protests, though Elbit denied any shutdowns.[28] Additionally, the firm has navigated patent litigation successfully, winning judgments totaling over $50 million against competitors like Hughes Network Systems between 2017 and 2019 for satellite communication infringements.[29][30] Geopolitical tensions have amplified scrutiny, with indirect supply chain probes, such as a 2025 Spanish investigation into a steel supplier for Elbit subsidiary IMI Systems over export compliance.[31] Despite these pressures, Elbit's order backlog reached $22.6 billion in 2024, reflecting resilience amid operational demands.[1]Corporate Structure and Financials
Organizational Divisions and Subsidiaries
Elbit Systems structures its operations across five primary business segments: Aerospace, C4I and Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) and Electronic Warfare (EW), Land, and Elbit Systems of America (ESA).[32][33] The Aerospace segment develops airborne platforms, unmanned aerial systems, precision-guided munition sensors, aerostructures, training simulators, flight academy solutions, and commercial aviation systems.[32] The C4I and Cyber segment focuses on command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) systems, data links, radio communications, cyber intelligence tools, autonomous solutions, and homeland security applications.[32] The ISTAR and EW segment provides electro-optic and laser systems, countermeasure technologies, naval solutions, signal intelligence (SIGINT), and electronic warfare capabilities.[32] The Land segment encompasses systems for military vehicles, artillery, mortar platforms, precision-guided munitions, and survivability/protection technologies, incorporating the acquired IMI Systems Ltd. since 2018 for advanced munitions and combat engineering.[32][19] ESA, functioning as a distinct segment, delivers tailored solutions for the U.S. military, foreign military sales, homeland security, medical instrumentation, and commercial aviation, including electro-optics and maintenance services through subsidiaries like Sparton and KMC Systems.[32] In 2024, these segments generated revenues of approximately $6.8 billion, with Aerospace contributing $2.04 billion (about 30%), Land $1.68 billion (23%), ISTAR and EW $1.32 billion (19%), C4I and Cyber around 12%, and ESA the remainder.[34][8] Elbit Systems maintains a network of subsidiaries across multiple countries to support global operations, with principal entities including Elbit Systems of America, LLC (headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas), which handles U.S.-focused defense, homeland security, and commercial products.[23][35] Other key subsidiaries encompass Elbit Systems UK for integration with British forces, Elbit Systems Deutschland for communications, optronics, and cyber in Europe, Elbit Systems Sweden for digitization and electronic warfare, Elbit Systems Switzerland for defense programs, and AEL Sistemas in Brazil for military avionics and space electronics.[23] In Israel, core subsidiaries include Elbit Systems Electro-Optics Elop Ltd. for optronics and Elbit Systems Land and C4I Ltd. for land systems and command solutions.[36] Additional holdings like Elisra Ltd. for electronic warfare and Tadiran Communications for secure radios bolster specialized capabilities.[19] These subsidiaries enable localized manufacturing, compliance with export regulations, and adaptation to regional defense needs.[23]Revenue Sources and Performance Metrics
Elbit Systems derives its revenues primarily from sales of advanced defense electronics, systems integration, and related technologies across five core business segments: Aerospace, C4I and Cyber, ISTAR and Electronic Warfare (EW), Land, and Elbit Systems of America (ESA). These segments encompass products such as avionics, command and control systems, intelligence surveillance targeting and reconnaissance (ISTAR) solutions, ground-based defense systems, and U.S.-focused subsidiaries' contributions, respectively. In 2024, segment-specific growth varied, with the Land segment expanding by 29%, Aerospace by approximately 27% as reported in earnings discussions, C4I and Cyber by 7-11%, ISTAR and EW by 10-12%, and ESA by 8-11%, reflecting increased demand for ground and aerial systems amid global conflicts.[37][38] Geographically, revenues in 2024 were balanced but skewed toward Israel at 29% ($1.97 billion), followed by Europe at 27% ($1.84 billion), North America at 22% ($1.50 billion), Asia-Pacific at 17% ($1.16 billion), Latin America at 2% ($0.14 billion), and other regions at 3% ($0.20 billion). This distribution underscores heavy reliance on Israeli government contracts, particularly with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), alongside exports to NATO allies and U.S. entities, driven by procurements for precision-guided munitions, drones, and electronic warfare capabilities.[39] Key performance metrics for 2024 included total revenues of $6.83 billion, a 14% year-over-year increase from $5.97 billion in 2023, supported by a year-end order backlog of $22.6 billion, up from $17.8 billion the prior year, signaling strong future revenue visibility equivalent to over three years of current sales. GAAP operating income reached $489.1 million (7.2% margin, improved from 6.1% in 2023), while non-GAAP operating income was $550.4 million (8.1% margin); net income stood at $321.1 million GAAP ($7.18 diluted EPS) and $391.5 million non-GAAP ($8.76 EPS).[37][40] In the first half of 2025, revenues grew 21% year-over-year to approximately $3.9 billion (Q1 $1.9 billion, Q2 $2.0 billion), with backlog expanding to $23.8 billion by Q2 end, and operating cash flow surging to $304 million from $26 million in H1 2024, attributable to accelerated deliveries amid heightened defense spending.[41][42]| Segment | 2024 Revenues (approx. $M) | Operating Income (GAAP, $M) | Margin (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospace | 1,781 | 149.1 | 7.3 |
| C4I & Cyber | 751 | 62.0 | 8.3 |
| ISTAR & EW | 1,119 | 96.1 | 8.6 |
| Land | 1,605 | 150.7 | 9.0 |
| ESA | 1,573 | 56.2 | 3.6 |
Core Products and Technologies
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Systems
Elbit Systems produces a range of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), spanning man-portable mini-UAS for tactical intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) to medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) platforms for strategic operations. These systems integrate advanced autonomous flight controls, electro-optical/infrared payloads, and synthetic aperture radar for real-time data relay, with over 300,000 cumulative flight hours logged across global deployments.[43][44] The Hermes family represents Elbit's flagship MALE UAS line, designed for multi-mission profiles including border patrol, maritime surveillance, and persistent overwatch. The Hermes 450, introduced as a tactical variant, features endurance exceeding 20 hours, a service ceiling of 18,000 feet, and compatibility with various payloads for reconnaissance and communications relay; it has been combat-proven with extensive operational use by multiple militaries.[44] The Hermes 900 extends these capabilities to longer ranges, with a 15-meter wingspan, 350 kg payload capacity, and autonomy for missions like exclusive economic zone monitoring and anti-piracy; it achieved first operational deployment in July 2014 during Israel's Protective Edge operation in Gaza.[45][46] Variants such as the Hermes 650 and Hermes StarLiner incorporate enhanced speed, endurance, and detect-and-avoid systems for integration into civilian airspace.[47] For shorter-range applications, Elbit's Skylark series provides backpackable solutions with vertical takeoff and landing options. The Skylark 3, a vehicle-launched tactical UAS, supports autonomous operations from takeoff to landing, delivering real-time video and intelligence over line-of-sight ranges up to 100 km, optimized for dismounted troops in urban or border environments.[48] Complementing these are loitering munitions like the Skystriker, an expendable precision-strike UAV with integrated electro-optical guidance for on-demand target engagement.[49] Elbit's UAS emphasize modularity, with in-house subsystems for avionics, propulsion, and mission computers, enabling rapid adaptation to customer requirements.[50]Land and Maritime Defense Systems
Elbit Systems develops advanced land defense systems to improve mobility, situational awareness, and combat effectiveness for ground forces, including upgrades for armored fighting vehicles (AFVs) and precision weapons platforms. Combat vehicle systems feature modular components such as weapon stations, fire control systems, turret drives, surveillance systems, target acquisition systems, battle management systems, and laser warning receivers, which integrate into existing platforms for net-centric compatibility and enhanced crew survivability.[51] These solutions also incorporate life support systems, CBRN protection, automotive enhancements, and robotics to support operations in diverse environments.[51] Weapons systems and munitions emphasize precision and adaptability, encompassing artillery and mortar platforms, precision-guided munitions, and innovative launching systems like truck-mounted howitzers for rapid deployment and reduced logistical footprint.[52] Over 40 years of development have enabled modular designs that integrate cutting-edge technologies, providing operational superiority in challenging terrains.[52] In maritime defense, Elbit Systems supplies integrated naval solutions for surface and underwater warfare, focusing on combat management, electronic warfare, and weapon integration across vessel classes from patrol boats to frigates. The ENTCS Naval Combat Management System delivers a unified tactical picture through automatic sensor fusion, robust networking, and seamless C4I integration for optimized ship operations and threat response.[53] Weapon systems include the TRIGON long-range sea-to-shore platform for precision strikes, remote-controlled weapon stations with stabilization technology, precision-guided surface guns for targeting moving threats, advanced laser warning systems for crew protection, and specialized naval ammunition adaptable to various platforms.[54] Electronic warfare and SIGINT suites enhance situational awareness and electronic protection, with deployments on platforms like Israel's Dolphin-class submarines for ELINT in dense electromagnetic environments.[55] In March 2025, Elbit Systems, in partnership with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, secured a contract to provide an integrated maritime electronic warfare self-protection solution, including decoy launching systems, for a NATO member state's frigate.[56] Underwater capabilities feature modular sonar systems, unmanned surface vessels, and acoustic communication platforms for anti-submarine and mine countermeasures.[57]
C4ISR, Cyber, and Electronic Warfare Solutions
Elbit Systems provides integrated C4ISR solutions that encompass command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance across land, airborne, and networked domains, utilizing artificial intelligence, software-defined networking, and multi-spectral sensing for real-time intelligence collection and operational coordination.[58][32] These systems support multi-domain operations through cloud-enabled architectures and open standards, including tactical software-defined radios such as E-LynX for secure communications and data links.[32] The Torch-X family represents a core platform, fusing sensors, effectors, and command-and-control applications to enable networked warfare and cross-force synchronization, as demonstrated in contracts like the $1.635 billion deal awarded on August 13, 2025, for intelligence solutions to a European country and the Torch-X Fires application selected for a European artillery upgrade on March 27, 2024.[59][60] In cyber operations, Elbit's offerings within the C4I and Cyber segment emphasize intelligence aggregation from sources including HUMINT, COMINT, OSINT, and IMINT, processed via AI and machine learning for threat analysis, alongside endpoint protection tools.[32] The CyberShield suite delivers holistic defense for isolated military and national networks lacking internet connectivity, assuming initial compromise to enable proactive real-time detection, response, and protection against sophisticated threats.[61][62] These solutions incorporate advanced technologies for endpoint detection and proactive measures, supporting cyber resilience in defense environments.[62] Elbit's electronic warfare and SIGINT capabilities focus on electromagnetic spectrum dominance, integrating real-time interception, analysis, countermeasures, and command-and-control to detect, locate, and neutralize threats for ground forces.[63] Land-based products include the vehicle-mounted ReDrone system for drone defense and RF countermeasures targeting improvised explosive devices, deployed globally to enhance situational awareness.[63] Additional systems address missile and drone threats, such as the MUSIC family for countering heat-seeking missiles and a June 2023-unveiled counter-drone suite featuring an EW controller and digital radar warning receiver; the SPEAR family further enables platforms to evade radar and sensor detection.[64][65][66] In January 2025, Elbit secured an $80 million contract from Israel's Ministry of Defense for advanced self-protection suites incorporating EW for F-16I aircraft.[67]Emerging Technologies like Directed Energy and Space Systems
Elbit Systems has developed high-power laser technologies for directed energy applications, including systems designed to counter drones, rockets, and missiles at low operational costs compared to traditional interceptors.[68] The company possesses over 40 years of experience in laser innovation, encompassing directed energy weapons, countermeasures, and high-power fiber lasers integrated into defense platforms.[69] In collaboration with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Elbit co-developed the Iron Beam system, a 100-kilowatt ground-based laser interceptor capable of neutralizing short-range threats such as rockets, mortars, drones, and cruise missiles.[70] Development of Iron Beam's core components concluded in September 2025, with initial deliveries to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) anticipated shortly thereafter, marking a step toward broader integration of directed energy across IDF platforms.[71] Elbit anticipates international interest in Iron Beam variants, driven by their scalability and reduced per-shot expenses.[72] Elbit is advancing airborne directed energy capabilities, adapting Iron Beam technology for integration onto Israeli Air Force platforms to enable aerial interception of threats.[73] This effort, initiated with Israel's Ministry of Defense around 2021, focuses on high-energy lasers stabilized for dynamic flight environments.[74] In space systems, Elbit specializes in electro-optic payloads for satellite-based observation, supporting military surveillance, environmental monitoring, and resource management.[75] Key offerings include the JUPITER space camera, launched aboard the NAOS satellite via SpaceX Falcon 9 on August 27, 2025, which provides high-resolution multispectral imaging for detecting agricultural and ecological changes.[76] The PLUTO family of Earth observation payloads builds on Elbit's legacy in space electro-optical systems, delivering persistent imaging for intelligence and civilian applications through its ISTAR division.[77] These technologies enhance beyond-line-of-sight data sharing and robotic operations via satellite-on-the-move communications.[32] Elbit has contributed to Israeli surveillance satellites, such as the 2020 Ofek-16 mission, incorporating advanced imaging components for orbital reconnaissance.[78]Contributions to Israeli Defense
Primary Supplier Role to the IDF
Elbit Systems functions as a primary supplier to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), delivering essential technologies across land, air, and electronic domains that enhance operational capabilities. The company provides unmanned aerial vehicles such as the Hermes 450 and Hermes 900 series, which constitute the backbone of the IDF's drone fleet for reconnaissance and targeted operations.[79] In 2024, Elbit's sales to the Israel Ministry of Defense reached approximately $2 billion, reflecting a 50% increase amid heightened conflict demands.[80] Key contracts underscore Elbit's integral role in munitions production. In August 2025, the Ministry of Defense awarded Elbit two contracts totaling $260 million for advanced airborne munitions, including precision-guided systems manufactured at domestic facilities.[81] Earlier, in January 2025, deals worth $275 million were signed to supply thousands of heavy air munitions and establish a dedicated production plant, reducing reliance on foreign imports.[82] Additionally, a $340 million contract in 2024 covered diverse ammunition types critical to ground and air forces.[3] Communication and electronic warfare systems further solidify Elbit's position. In December 2024, Elbit secured a $130 million deal to deliver thousands of advanced personal communication units to IDF troops, completing a series of procurements for enhanced battlefield connectivity.[83] For air defense, a January 2025 contract valued at $80 million provided self-protection suites, including electronic warfare and directed infrared countermeasures, for F-16I fighter jets.[67] These systems integrate into broader C4ISR frameworks, enabling real-time data sharing and threat mitigation. Elbit's contributions extend to ground forces equipment, where it supplies tactical intelligence and protection technologies. The company's domestic manufacturing supports rapid deployment and maintenance, with revenues from Israeli sales shifting to represent about 42% of total income by late 2024, driven by domestic priorities over exports.[84] This role positions Elbit as a cornerstone of IDF sustainment, particularly in prolonged engagements requiring precision and reliability.Key Deployments in Operations and Conflicts
Elbit Systems' Hermes series unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), including the Hermes 450 and Hermes 900 models, have been extensively deployed by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, as well as precision strikes, in multiple conflicts. During the 2023-ongoing Gaza conflict against Hamas, Hermes 450 drones from the IDF's 161st Squadron played a central role in real-time monitoring and targeting terrorist positions, enabling rapid response to threats from Gaza.[85] The Hermes 900, operated by the 166th "Firebird" Squadron, has been utilized for persistent surveillance over Gaza territory, providing continuous aerial oversight amid urban combat operations.[86] In border tensions with Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, Hermes drones have conducted operational flights for border monitoring and strike support, with multiple instances of Hermes 900 and 450 models being intercepted by Hezbollah forces between April and October 2024, confirming their active deployment in the region.[87][88] Elbit's smaller Skylark tactical UAVs have supported ground operations in nearly every major IDF mission since their operational debut in 2008, including reconnaissance for infantry units in Gaza incursions and Lebanon skirmishes.[19] The Iron Fist Active Protection System (APS), developed by Elbit, has been integrated into IDF platforms such as the Eitan armored personnel carrier and Panda armored bulldozers, enhancing vehicle survivability against anti-tank threats during ground operations in Gaza starting from late 2022 integrations.[89][90] In July 2025, during strikes on Iranian targets, the Israeli Air Force operationally deployed Elbit's advanced Self-Protection Suites on aircraft for the first time, protecting assets in extended-range missions beyond Israel's borders.[91] These deployments underscore Elbit's systems' role in enabling precision, standoff capabilities, and force protection in asymmetric warfare environments.Impact on Defensive Capabilities and Precision Warfare
Elbit Systems' Iron Fist Active Protection System (APS) significantly bolsters the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) defensive capabilities by providing 360-degree protection for armored vehicles against anti-tank guided missiles, rocket-propelled grenades, and other short-range threats. Completed operational tests in December 2022 demonstrated its effectiveness in intercepting multi-range threats in open and urban battle spaces, enhancing vehicle survivability and crew safety during ground operations.[90] The system's hard-kill mechanism neutralizes incoming projectiles with counter-munitions, offering a lightweight solution suitable for medium and light armored platforms, thereby reducing casualties in high-threat environments like those encountered in Gaza border incursions.[92] In precision warfare, Elbit's Hermes series unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), including the Hermes 450 and Hermes 900, serve as core ISR assets for the IDF, accumulating over 300,000 flight hours in combat operations. These medium-altitude long-endurance drones enable real-time surveillance, target acquisition, and strike coordination, facilitating targeted engagements that minimize collateral damage in asymmetric conflicts.[44] For instance, the Hermes 900 has supported deep-penetration missions, providing persistent overhead intelligence that informs precision-guided strikes against high-value targets.[93] Elbit's Iron Sting precision-guided mortar munition further advances precision warfare by delivering accurate fire support against pinpoint threats such as tunnel shafts, with a range of up to 10 kilometers and reduced dispersion compared to unguided alternatives. Deployed by the IDF since at least 2023, it allows forces to neutralize underground infrastructure while limiting surface-level destruction, as evidenced in operations countering Hamas tunnel networks.[94] Integration of such systems with Elbit's C4ISR technologies enhances overall battle management, enabling data fusion for faster, more decisive engagements that prioritize operational efficiency and force protection.[95]International Sales and Partnerships
Export Markets in Europe and North America
Elbit Systems maintains significant export activities in Europe, where demand for its defense technologies has grown amid regional security concerns. In August 2025, the company secured a $1.635 billion contract with an undisclosed European country to supply long-range artillery systems, unmanned aerial systems, intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) solutions, combat vehicle upgrades, and digitalization technologies over five years.[24] This deal underscores Elbit's role in enhancing European military capabilities, despite isolated cancellations such as Spain's termination of a €150 million contract in 2025.[96] In December 2024, Elbit received $175 million in orders from a European NATO member for advanced defense systems, including munitions and related technologies.[97] Germany has been a key customer, awarding Elbit a $260 million contract in July 2025 for aircraft self-protection systems, building on prior engagements for air defense solutions.[98] Smaller agreements include a €20 million deal with Montenegro in 2023 for ground-to-ground defense exports.[99] In September 2025, Elbit won a $120 million order for Hermes 900 unmanned aerial vehicles from a European client, reflecting sustained interest in its drone technologies despite diplomatic pressures.[100] North America represents a core export market for Elbit, primarily through its U.S. subsidiary, Elbit Systems of America, which secures contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense and other agencies. In September 2023, Elbit America was awarded a contract by U.S. Customs and Border Protection for medium- and long-range surveillance towers to enhance border security.[101] The U.S. military has issued multiple awards, including an $8.4 million firm-fixed-price contract in July 2024 for unspecified systems and an $18.5 million contract in September 2024 for defense-related equipment.[102][103] Canada has procured Elbit systems, notably a $36 million contract in December 2020 for a civilian variant of the Hermes 900 StarLiner drone.[104] Additional Canadian government contracts with Elbit Systems of America, though smaller in scale, support ongoing engagements in surveillance and defense electronics.[105] These North American deals highlight Elbit's integration into allied defense supply chains, leveraging battle-tested technologies for joint operations and homeland security.Deals in Asia-Pacific and Latin America
Elbit Systems has secured multiple contracts in the Asia-Pacific region, often with undisclosed customers, focusing on advanced defense technologies such as unmanned systems, electronic warfare, and networked warfare capabilities. In July 2022, the company won a $548 million deal to supply multi-domain combat networked warfare solutions to an unnamed Asia-Pacific country's military.[106] This was followed in September 2022 by an $80 million contract for 30mm-gun unmanned light turrets for armored fighting vehicles (AFVs) destined for another Asia-Pacific nation. In October 2022, Elbit received a $215 million order for an aerial intelligence platform from a regional customer.[107] Additional agreements include a $76 million contract in September 2022 for electronic warfare training systems and a $114 million deal in July 2023 to equip two long-range maritime patrol aircraft for an Asia-Pacific country.[108][109] In Latin America, Elbit's engagements emphasize unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), artillery, and brigade modernization, with notable sales to Peru, Brazil, Chile, and Colombia. The Hermes 900 UAV has been supplied and operates in Brazil, Chile, and Colombia, supporting maritime surveillance and other missions.[110] In April 2020, Elbit secured $20 million in contracts to upgrade Hermes 900 systems for Latin American operators.[111] An $80 million contract, date unspecified but reported in 2022, provided command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence (C4I) systems to an unnamed Latin American country.[112] In October 2022, a $65 million deal delivered a fully networked mechanized brigade solution, integrating E-LynX software-defined radios into Shaldag 4x4 and Paramount 6x6 vehicles for a Latin American army.[113] More recently, in July 2025, Elbit signed a $60 million agreement with Peru for the PULS multiple-launch rocket system, including local production and technology transfer to enhance artillery capabilities.[114] However, a planned acquisition of Elbit howitzers by the Brazilian Army, announced in May 2024, was suspended by October 2024 amid political sensitivities related to the Israel-Gaza conflict.[115]| Key Contracts | Region/Country | Value | Date | Systems Supplied |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-domain networked warfare | Asia-Pacific (undisclosed) | $548M | July 2022 | Combat solutions[106] |
| Unmanned turrets for AFVs | Asia-Pacific (undisclosed) | $80M | Sep 2022 | 30mm-gun systems |
| Aerial intelligence platform | Asia-Pacific (undisclosed) | $215M | Oct 2022 | Intelligence tech[107] |
| Hermes 900 upgrades | Latin America (multiple) | $20M | Apr 2020 | UAV enhancements[111] |
| Networked mechanized brigade | Latin America (undisclosed) | $65M | Oct 2022 | E-LynX radios, vehicles[113] |
| PULS rocket system | Peru | $60M | July 2025 | Artillery with local production[114] |