DID Press: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Wednesday the country will invest $110 billion over the next ten years to develop an independent domestic weapons industry.
A significant portion of the military equipment used by the Israeli army has traditionally been supplied by the United States under a longstanding defense cooperation agreement between the two allies. However, following two years of conflict on multiple fronts and international criticism over high civilian casualties in Gaza, some countries have suspended or restricted arms sales to Israel.
Speaking at a military ceremony at a southern airbase, Netanyahu said: “I have approved a total of 350 billion shekels for the coming decade to establish an independent defense industry for the State of Israel. We want to reduce our dependence on any party, even our friends. Our best minds in defense industries are working hard to develop systems that will guarantee Israel’s superiority on the future battlefield.”
According to the U.S. Congress, Washington provided Israel with $3.3 billion in military aid and $500 million for missile defense cooperation in 2025. Nevertheless, Israeli leaders have expressed a desire to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
In a controversial speech in September, Netanyahu said Israel is increasingly becoming isolated and must adopt an “Ultra-Sparta” approach. Following negative reactions, he clarified that he was referring to the defense industry, emphasizing the need for Israel to achieve self-sufficiency to prevent potential supply bottlenecks.
Netanyahu reiterated that the development of a domestic weapons industry will strengthen Israel’s security. He said: “We have established our position as a regional power—and in some areas, a global power. This brings many countries closer to us. Peace is made with the powerful, not the weak.”
Government data indicate that Israel will allocate about 16% of its 2026 national budget—approximately $35 billion out of a total $208 billion—to defense. Before the start of the Gaza war following Hamas attacks in October 2023, Israel’s defense budget stood at around $20.4 billion.
The increase in Israel’s military spending underscores the continuation of its aggressive policies in Gaza and the strengthening of its armed forces in carrying out further military operations.