Israel successfully launched its latest military reconnaissance satellite, “Ofek-19,” into orbit late Tuesday, with initial tests confirming that the system is operating as planned, the Defense Ministry said. Times of Israel quoting the Defense Ministry, reports the satellite lifted off at 10:30 p.m. local time from the Palmachim airbase in central Israel using a Shavit launcher. By Wednesday morning, it had entered its planned orbit, begun transmitting data, and passed a series of preliminary checks. Defense Minister Israel Katz described the launch as both a technological milestone and a s

Israel successfully launched its latest military reconnaissance satellite, “Ofek-19,” into orbit late Tuesday, with initial tests confirming that the system is operating as planned, the Defense Ministry said. Times of Israel quoting the Defense Ministry, reports the satellite lifted off at 10:30 p.m. local time from the Palmachim airbase in central Israel using a Shavit launcher. By Wednesday morning, it had entered its planned orbit, begun transmitting data, and passed a series of preliminary checks. Defense Minister Israel Katz described the launch as both a technological milestone and a strategic message to Israel’s adversaries. “It is also a message to all our enemies, wherever they may be — we are watching you at all times and in all circumstances,” Katz wrote on X, adding that Israel will continue to invest heavily in space and satellite programs. The “Ofek-19” is a synthetic aperture radar observation satellite designed to provide high-resolution, all-weather, day-and-night imaging for intelligence and surveillance purposes. Responsibility for its operations will be transferred to the IDF’s Unit 9900, which specializes in visual intelligence. President Isaac Herzog hailed the launch as a demonstration of Israel’s innovation and strategic capabilities. “We are not only a Start-Up Nation, we are a Space Nation. Israel must be in space — that is where the future of humanity lies,” Herzog said. Defense officials including Defense Ministry Director General Amir Baram, head of R&D Danny Gold, and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) CEO Boaz Levy attended the launch. Baram called the satellite a “significant force multiplier,” noting that modern warfare increasingly extends into space. Levy highlighted the satellite’s advanced radar imaging capabilities, saying they would strengthen Israel’s air and ground superiority, particularly after recent clashes with Iran. Earlier, he told Channel 13 the satellite could capture images of objects smaller than 50 centimeters across, regardless of weather or lighting conditions. The launch briefly caused alarm in Tel Aviv and central Israel, where residents mistook the rocket trail for an interceptor missile. Videos circulated online showed passersby speculating about the source of the launch. The satellite was developed by Israel Aerospace Industries with contributions from its Systems, Missiles and Space Group, ELTA Group, and MLM Division. The rocket engines were produced in partnership with Tomer Ltd. and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. “Ofek-19” follows the launch of “Ofek-13” in March 2023 and is part of Israel’s broader effort to expand its constellation of space-based reconnaissance assets.  

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