Israel's arms expansion: 350 billion shekels for more independence!

Israel's arms expansion: 350 billion shekels for more independence!

The Israeli government is planning major investments in its own weapons industry in order to increase its independence from third countries. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced during a ceremony to celebrate newly trained air force pilots that a total of 350 billion shekels, or around 93 billion euros, would flow into expanding domestic arms production. This decision comes at a time when Israel is enjoying increasing international arms interest, particularly from Germany and other European countries.

Netanyahu stressed that demand for Israeli weapons systems has grown in recent months, underscoring the need to strengthen the national industry. This project is seen as a strategic step to become independent of the often changeable relationships with allies. Particular tensions had previously affected arms exports, which the federal government temporarily suspended in response to the Gaza war, which caused discontent in Tel Aviv.

Arms exports on the brink

The return to regular arms exports to Israel was announced on November 24, 2025. This was done on the condition that the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas remains stable. A three-month break was followed by a new decision that brings back the case-by-case assessment for arms exports. In addition to the existing regulations, the delivery of goods necessary to protect Israel against attacks was exempt from the restrictions. The new requirements met with different reactions; While the German-Israeli Society (DIG) praised the measure as important for Germany's foreign policy reliability, the left-wing faction in the Bundestag criticized the decision as problematic and irresponsible.

Another aspect of recent developments is the contract between Germany and Israel on the Arrow 3 missile defense system. There has been much discussion about this deal, which, with a total value of around 5.7 billion euros, represents the largest arms deal in Israel's history. The rearmament is intended to protect Germany from possible missile attacks, especially from Russia, and is of strategic importance.

Political consequences

These changes in the armaments sector are also a result of the political uncertainties that shape federal politics. Chancellor Friedrich Merz temporarily stopped exports in August 2025, which caused irritation within the Union and was not coordinated in advance with the CSU and the Union parliamentary group. This shows how complicated the situation is, with both military and diplomatic dimensions.

Overall, the situation is important for both Israel and Germany, as both sides have an interest in stable and reliable arms relations. The planned expansion of Israeli arms production could be beneficial for both Tel Aviv and its European partners, but it also remains associated with numerous political challenges.