Israel Successfully Launched Spy Satellite "Ofek-19" into Orbit.
Science and Technology
In September 2025, Israel launched its advanced spy satellite "Ofek-19" into orbit using a Shavit rocket from Palmachim Airbase, south of Tel Aviv. The launch marks a significant step in strengthening Israel’s surveillance and intelligence capabilities across the Middle East.
- Ofek-19 was developed under Israel’s defense space program and led by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) through its Systems, Missiles, and Space (SMS) Group, specifically the SPACE Division. It highlights Israel’s growing expertise in space-based intelligence systems.
- The project was developed in partnership with several defense firms: ELTA Group, which manufactured the payload; IAI’s MLM Division, which developed the launcher; Tomer Ltd., which built the rocket engines; and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems (ADS), which contributed to propulsion and systems integration.
- The Ofek-19 satellite operates in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of around 500 kilometers. It is capable of capturing high-resolution images covering areas up to 15 square kilometers, with object detection accuracy as small as 50 centimeters.
Main Point :- (i) Ofek-19 is equipped with a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) observation system that enables high-quality imaging and data collection in all weather conditions, including night and cloud-covered environments, ensuring uninterrupted surveillance capacity.
(ii) The satellite will significantly enhance Israel’s surveillance, reconnaissance, and defense preparedness across the Middle East. Its real-time intelligence collection plays a crucial role in monitoring regional threats and strengthening national security.
(iii) Ofek-19 follows a series of earlier successful Israeli satellites, including Ofek-16 launched in July 2020 and Ofek-13 launched in March 2023. Each generation has introduced improved imaging and intelligence-gathering capabilities, making Ofek-19 the most advanced in the series.
About Israel
Prime Minister (PM): Benjamin Netanyahu
Capital: Jerusalem
____________________________
