The Space Administration in the Directorate of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D) of the Israel Ministry of Defence (MoD), and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), said Monday (6 July) they have successfully launched the Ofek 16 reconnaissance satellite into space. The launch was performed from a launch site based in central Israel, using a Shavit launcher. The satellite began to orbit earth and to transmit data in accordance with original launch plans. MoD and IAI engineers have started a series of tests to determine the propriety and performance level of the satellite before it begins its full operational activities.
Defence Minister Benny Gantz said “the successful launch of the Ofek 16 satellite overnight is yet another extraordinary achievement for the defence establishment, for the defence industries as a whole, and for Israel Aerospace Industries in particular. Technological superiority and intelligence capabilities are essential to the security of the state of Israel. The fact that Israel is one of the 13 countries in the world with satellite launching capabilities is not a given, and was made possible by the people who have been investing in these systems and advancing breakthrough capabilities over the years. We will continue to strengthen and maintain Israel’s capabilities on every front, in every place”.
Ofek 16 is an electro-optical reconnaissance satellite with advanced capabilities. Its development was enabled by the great experience gained by the defence establishment in the production of earlier satellites in the Ofek series, which have been produced and launched since the year 1988.
The Space Administration in MoD has led the development and production of the satellite and its launcher. IAI is the prime contractor, having assigned the programme to its Systems, Missiles and Space Group together with the MLM Division, which is responsible for the development of the launcher. Elbit Systems is responsible for the development and production of the satellite’s advanced camera and payload. The launch engines were developed by Rafael Advanced Defence Systems and Tomer, a government-owned company. Additional companies have participated in the programme including Rokar and Cielo.
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