Israel Launches Ofek-19 Military Reconnaissance Satellite

Israel successfully launched the Ofek 19 reconnaissance satellite from Palmachim Airbase, marking the latest advancement in its military space capabilities. The satellite, developed and manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries with contributions from ELTA Group, Tomer Ltd., and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, is equipped with advanced synthetic aperture radar for high-resolution imaging and intelligence gathering. Upon entering orbit, Ofek 19 will undergo a series of tests to verify its functionality. This launch continues Israel's ongoing space observation program, following the Ofek-13 satellite launched in March 2023, and involves close cooperation between the Defense Ministry, IDF, and the Defense Research and Development Directorate. The launch was visible across central Israel, causing some residents to mistake it for an interceptor missile. Israel remains one of a select group of nations with full space launch and satellite development capabilities.