Israel Defense Exports Hit Record $19-B Amid Rising Global Demand

Israel’s weapons exports reached a record high of more than $19 billion last year, marking a 30% increase from 2024, according to the country’s Defense Ministry, Sam Mednick reported for The Associated Press (AP).

Israel's Defense Ministry did not disclose specific buyers. (Photo: חובבשירה, Wikimedia Commons) 

More than half of 2025’s sales came from so-called “mega-deals” valued at $100 million or more.

The ministry said exports have more than doubled over the past five years, despite ongoing international criticism of Israel’s military operations in Gaza and conflicts involving Hezbollah and Iran.

The ministry did not disclose specific buyers. However, industry officials say some countries that publicly pledge to reduce reliance on Israeli arms continue to place orders.

Experts attribute the growth in demand to Israel’s reputation for battle-tested defense systems, often tested in real-world conflict environments.

A March report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) found that Israel has surpassed the United Kingdom to become the world’s seventh-largest arms exporter.