The Israeli Ministry of Defence announced that local company XTEND has won a tender to supply thousands of FPV drones to the IDF Ground Forces, Defence Blog reports.
This involves the supply of drones worth millions of US dollars. They are designed to enhance combat capabilities with advanced autonomous technologies.
The procurement is also expected to include training programs that will allow for the rapid integration of drones into Israel's defense system.
The Defense Procurement Directorate (DPD) said the contract is part of a broader domestic procurement initiative aimed at strengthening Israel's defense production capabilities while ensuring that the country's Defense Forces' immediate and long-term operational needs are met.
In general, Israel plans to expand local UAV production and strengthen the role of the country's companies in meeting defense needs.
The Ministry of Defence has already stated that the purchase of drones from XTEND is in line with plans to expand and improve the industrial base and support the ability of the Ground Forces to adapt to the challenges of modern warfare.
It is noted that FPV drones will provide the Israel Defense Forces with flexible capabilities for reconnaissance, targeting, and tactical operations in difficult conditions.
Unlike traditional unmanned aerial systems, FPVs are suitable for close-range operations, giving units a versatile tool for both offensive and defensive missions.
Earlier, Yuval Baseski, the president of the Israeli company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, in an interview with the media, called on South Korea to join the development of defense systems against hypersonic missiles.