Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is holding discussions with Indian defense firms to establish a manufacturing line for Iron Dome interceptors inside the country, based on recent reports from India.

Rafael currently produces the system interceptors at one of its plants in northern Israel, and last year a missile production line also began operating in the US in partnership with Raytheon. The American facility will provide interceptors for the Marines new air defense system and, if required, can support production in Israel.

India purchased the Israel Aerospace Industries Barak 8 air defense system for its air force, navy and army at a cost of billions of dollars. The system was developed jointly by the two nations, yet India has also acquired its own domestic air defense system for shorter ranges.

Manufacturing in India is expected to assist Rafael with sales to other nations, reduce expenses, offer additional backup when needed to the existing production lines, and improve the company position with the Indian authorities, which require foreign defense firms not only to produce in India as a condition for selling to the local military, but also to export from there and thereby support its economy.

Elbit also manufactures the Hermes 900 drones, known as Star in the Air Force, and the Hermes 450, known as Zik, in India, and has supplied components from there for the additional Star squadron recently opened in the Air Force.

Iron Dome sees increased use during Operation Roaring Lion

The launches of Iranian missiles and UAVs at Israel and Gulf states have led to increased use of Iron Dome during Operation Roaring Lion, also in scenarios for which it was not originally designed.

Initially, foreign sources and reports said that an Israeli Iron Dome battery was deployed in the Emirates and helped intercept rockets, missiles and UAVs launched at it by Iran. These deployments were confirmed earlier this week by Transportation Minister Miri Regev during an appearance at the Israel Hayom conference.

Demand for air defense systems worldwide is rising, and supply from India could help Rafael overcome political opposition to procuring from Israel at present.