The Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D) in the Israel Ministry of Defense has issued a Request for Information (RFI) regarding the establishment of the DefenseTech Fellows Program. The goal of the program is to create a network of DefenseTech leaders to drive growth and collaboration across the defense ecosystem.

For more details and to respond to the RFI

The DDR&D in the Israel Ministry of Defense invites you to apply to participate in a call for proposals for robotics for heavy lifting in maintenance operations.

We invite companies that have technologies capable of addressing the challenge detailed in the attached link to submit their applications

Open call for participation in the Defense Industries Delegation to Texas, USA

The delegation essentially allows Israeli defense companies to meet with key figures in the defense technology industries in Texas

For more details

Call for participation in the Bangalore Tech Summit!

Join the Israeli National Pavilion at the Bangalore Tech Summit, Asia’s largest technology event.

For more details

Calling all DefenseTech Startups!

Are you building the next breakthrough in defense technology? We are inviting startups to apply for our biggest startup exhibition ever at DefenseTech Week, TLV 2026. Showcase your technology, connect with the entire ecosystem, including leading investors and VCs, and network with potential partners and customers.

📅 Startup Exhibition dates: December 2-3, 2026
📍Location: Smolarz Auditorium, Tel Aviv University

Application deadline: Tuesday, September 1, 2026

👉Apply here

DDR&D at the Israel Ministry of Defense invites you to submit Requests for Information (RFI) and Requests for Demonstration (RFD) in the areas of detection, and localization of drones based on a cellular network.

The solutions are required to provide an operational, mobile and adapted response to the characteristics of the dynamics of the force maneuvering in hostile terrain.

Classification highlights and contact:

*Access to the full RFI documents will be allowed only to those who meet the threshold conditions and above.

*To schedule a meeting, review the documents or receive additional details, please contact us via the link.

*The deadline for submission is until 30.8.26, if it is decided to extend it we will update via the link

A quick roundup of the opportunities currently open through the Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D / MAFAT) at the Israel Ministry of Defense.

You’re receiving this email because you registered for one of Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D / MAFAT) activities and opted in to receive newsletter updates. You may unsubscribe at any time.

🇮🇳 Looking to Expand in the Indian Market?

New cohort open for National Resilience companies looking to enter the Indian market. Run with the DWM Fund and operated by T-Hub.

Participation is open to companies working with the DDR&D or graduates of Mafat for Startups acceleration programs.

→ Apply here

🇩🇪Your Gateway to Germany’s Defense-Tech Market

We’re hosting an exclusive webinar with the Head of Defense at T-Systems International - a rare chance to hear directly about the challenges they’re trying to solve.

Looking for: C4, (Counter) UxV, Defense Digital Suites, Training & Simulation, Defense Logistics, Military Intelligence.

Participation is open to companies working with the DDR&D or graduates of Mafat for Startups acceleration programs.

→ Apply here

🇩🇪The Israeli Delegation to Deep Tech Momentum 2026

IMOD׳s DDR&D invites startups and SMBs to apply for the Israeli delegation to Deep Tech Momentum 2026 - a unique opportunity to showcase breakthrough technologies at the heart of Europe’s innovation ecosystem.

The event brings together founders, investors, corporates, and government leaders to accelerate partnerships around the future of deep tech and dual-use innovation.

→ Apply here

Call for Information on Advanced Manufacturing Methods

IMOD׳s DDR&D invites civilian and defense industries, production line leaders, defense manufacturers, factories, manufacturing companies, component suppliers, and material companies to submit technological or organizational proposals. The proposals, as detailed below, should enable significant improvements in existing production capabilities and capacity to establish an advanced, high-quality defense manufacturing infrastructure.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

→ Apply here

Israel MOD and Rafael Announce: Development of High-Power Laser System Completed - Delivery for IDF Operational Use Expected in the Near Term 💥

The R&D Unit within the Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) Directorate of Defense Research & Development - DDR&D (MAFAT), Israeli Air Force (IAF), and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems have successfully completed a series of tests lasting several weeks, demonstrating the capabilities of the Iron Beam high-power laser system, with Elbit Systems serving as a project partner manufacturing the laser source.

The test series, conducted at a facility in southern Israel, concludes the development phase and represents the final milestone before delivering the system to the IDF for operational deployment. The system proved its effectiveness in a complete operational configuration by intercepting rockets, mortars, aircraft, and UAVs across a comprehensive range of operational scenarios. The successful trials mark a critical milestone towards operational deployment, with the first systems set to be integrated into the IDF air defense arrays by year-end.

Fuel for the DefenseTech ecosystem

The Israel Ministry of Finance, together with the DDR&D in the Israeli Ministry of Defense, has approached the Knesset Finance Committee to approve a state guarantee of up to approximately $60 million (NIS 200 million) for establishing dedicated venture capital funds focused on advanced defense technologies (Defense Tech).

This groundbreaking initiative aims to strengthen Israel's technological, industrial, and security sectors, while creating critical supply chains and contributing to job creation and economic growth.

🇮🇳 Bangalore Tech Summit 2025

We’re proud to represent Israeli innovation at the upcoming Bangalore Tech Summit 2025 – India’s flagship technology and innovation event.

This is a unique opportunity for MFS startups to showcase their solutions, connect with global industry leaders, and explore one of the fastest-growing tech ecosystems in the world.

We invite startups to apply now for the chance to join our delegation and present at the summit, taking place November 18–20, 2025.

Registration is open exclusively for IMOD's DDR&D companies – either those currently working with a direct order, or alumni of one of the MFS programs.

DefenseTech Week in TLV - Big Names on Stage

Israel’s biggest stage for defense innovation just got bigger.
We’re excited to announce Shaun Maguire, Partner at Sequoia Capital, as one of our keynote speakers.

He’ll share an investor’s perspective on the future of DefenseTech – a rare chance to hear directly from one of the leading global voices in venture capital.

Call for Startups: Exhibit at DefenseTech Week 2025

This December in Tel Aviv, we’re opening applications for startups to exhibit their technologies alongside the most distinguished leaders, policymakers, and innovators.

👉 This is a rare opportunity to showcase your startup in front of global defense leaders and top investors.

📩 Apply now to be part of the exhibition:
icrc.tau.ac.il/startups-dtw25

After last year’s DefenseTech Summit, IMOD’s DDR&D is coming back with an even bigger event!

We’re excited to invite you to DefenseTech Week, taking place at Tel Aviv University on December 1st and 2nd.

Join us for two days filled with cutting-edge technology, in-depth discussions, a defense-tech exhibition, and exceptional networking opportunities.

The summit will feature top speakers from Israel and around the world, presenting the latest advancements in defense technologies and showing how Israeli innovations are addressing global defense challenges.

The full agenda and registration details will be released soon.

INNOFENSE 6 Is Now Open for Applications!

Are you a startup founder looking to make a real impact, explore new verticals, and grow your business?

The INNOFENSE innovation program, led by IMOD’s DDR&D and powered by SOSA and iHLS Israel Homeland Security, invites you to discover how your technologies can transition into the defense sector - and help solve some of Israel’s most pressing multi-domain defense challenges.

This cycle, we are seeking innovative solutions across various fields, including human performance and cognitive technologies, detection and sensing, as well as 9 additional key areas defined by leading defense branches.

This is a unique chance to accelerate your innovation and take part in shaping the future of DefenseTech.

Applications are open until July 10th!

Register through SOSA:

https://www.sosa.co/hls/innofense

Register through iHLS:

https://accelerator.i-hls.com/he/innofense-he/

Following our successful delegation to DSEI Japan - where 8 Israeli startups presented their technologies on a global stage - we are proud to continue the momentum at DSEI London!

A select group of startups will join us as part of the official Israeli innovation presence, led by the DDR&D at the Israeli Ministry of Defense.

Participation includes:

- A fully sponsored exhibition booth at the event

- International visibility as part of Israel’s official delegation

- Direct exposure to defense leaders, global corporations, investors, and government representatives

- A unique opportunity to be part of one of the most influential events in the defense industry

Join us

During the Swords of Iron War, the Israeli Ministry of Defense DDR&D (MAFAT), the Israeli Air Force, and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems executed an accelerated development program to deploy revolutionary interception systems. As a result of this initiative, soldiers from the IAF Aerial Defense Array operated high-power laser system prototypes in the field, successfully intercepting scores of enemy threats.

These systems are based on technological breakthroughs developed over decades at Rafael, in close cooperation with the R&D Division of the DDR&D.

The deployed laser systems are part of Rafael’s portfolio of directed energy weapon systems, developed in collaboration with the IMOD, and complement the more powerful Iron Beam system, currently under development, which is expected to be delivered to the IDF later this year.

Throughout the current war, the IAF, including its Aerial Defense Array soldiers, studied and deployed the laser systems in the field, achieving outstanding interception rates that saved civilian lives and protected national assets.

Join us for the next session in the DefenseTech World Series, where we’ll explore how dual-use innovation is reshaping defense and commercial technology landscapes.

​We're honored to host Fiona Murray, William Porter (1967) Chair of Entrepreneurship at the MIT Sloan School of Management and Vice Chair of the NATO Innovation Fund.
​
→ Discover how dual-use innovation serves as a strategic lever for scaling and funding
​→Gain global perspectives on defense-tech commercialization
​→Hear about the role of venture capital and public-private partnerships

June 3rd | 14:00–15:00 (Israel Time)| Zoom

After our successful webinar with Shyam Sankar (Chief Technology Officer at Palantir Technologies) we are hosting another exclusive conversation with two of the world’s leading investors:

Avi Eyal – Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Entrée Capital

Shaun Maguire – Partner at Sequoia Capital

Discover why top-tier VCs are shifting their focus to defense tech, what excites them in the space, and where they believe the biggest opportunities lie.

Join us here

📍 Zoom

📅 May 14

🕡 18:30–19:30.

Part of the DefenseTech World Series Hosted by DDR&D (MAFAT) - Directorate of Defense Research & Development and Mafat for Startups

Join us for the next session in the DefenseTech World Series, where we’ll explore how dual-use innovation is reshaping defense and commercial technology landscapes.

​We're honored to host Fiona Murray, William Porter (1967) Chair of Entrepreneurship at the MIT Sloan School of Management and Vice Chair of the NATO Innovation Fund.
​
→ Discover how dual-use innovation serves as a strategic lever for scaling and funding
​→Gain global perspectives on defense-tech commercialization
​→Hear about the role of venture capital and public-private partnerships

June 3rd | 14:00–15:00 (Israel Time)| Zoom

Join us, here

After our successful webinar with Shyam Sankar (Chief Technology Officer at Palantir Technologies) we are hosting another exclusive conversation with two of the world’s leading investors:

Avi Eyal – Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Entrée Capital

Shaun Maguire – Partner at Sequoia Capital

Discover why top-tier VCs are shifting their focus to defense tech, what excites them in the space, and where they believe the biggest opportunities lie.

📍 Zoom
📅 May 14
🕡 18:30–19:30

Part of the DefenseTech World Series Hosted by DDR&D (MAFAT) - Directorate of Defense Research & Development and Mafat for Startups

We are excited to introduce a brand-new online event series featuring global leaders in DefenseTech — and we're proud to kick it off with Shyam Sankar, CTO at Palantir Technologies.

Join us for an exclusive webinar where Shyam will dive into the rapidly evolving world of defense technologies and innovation.

Hosted by DDR&D and Mafat for Startups, this session will explore how cutting-edge technologies are reshaping defense strategies, capabilities, and global security.

Link to register

📅 Date: March 31
🕣 Time: 20:15 - 21:30 (IST)
💻 Platform: Zoom

We are excited to introduce a brand-new online event series featuring global leaders in DefenseTech — and we're proud to kick it off with Shyam Sankar, CTO at Palantir Technologies.

Join us for an exclusive webinar where Shyam will dive into the rapidly evolving world of defense technologies and innovation.

Hosted by DDR&D and Mafat for Startups, this session will explore how cutting-edge technologies are reshaping defense strategies, capabilities, and global security.

Link to register

📅 Date: March 31
🕣 Time: 20:15 - 21:30 (IST)
💻 Platform: Zoom

You're invited to an exclusive gathering of defense and dual-use tech founders for an in-depth discussion on innovation in the field. This special meetup will feature a panel of industry experts who will share insights on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in defense and dual-use technology.

Click here to register.

Key Highlights from 2024

→ Boom in Startups working with DDR&D
The number of startups collaborating with Mafat (DDR&D) and the Ministry of Defense reached 299, a 72% increase since the end of 2023. These companies operate within various innovation programs, including INNOFENSE (DDR&D Dual Use Accelerator) and direct collaborations with the defense sector.

→ Record Funding and Contracts
Over ₪1.22 billion ($320M) in contracts were awarded to startups, alongside an additional ₪317 million ($83M) in defense-related projects. From the outbreak of the Iron Swords War until December 31, 2024, 101 startups and small companies received orders totaling approximately 782 million ILS, including 6 startups that are alumni of INNOFENSE. Of this amount, approximately 317 million ILS was allocated in 2024.

→ Early-Stage Startups Take the Lead
According to DDR&D data, 62% of all startups contracted by the Israeli Ministry of Defense in 2024 are at the SEED or PRE-SEED stage.
- 20% have completed their first funding round
- 10% have completed a second or third round
- 8% have completed an EXIT or IPO

→ Defense Startups’ Pivotal Role in National Security
The ongoing ‘Iron Swords’ war has demonstrated the strategic value of startups. More than 101 startups played a direct role in the war effort, receiving contracts to develop critical defense technologies. These contracts included advancements in AI, cybersecurity, drone technology, and autonomous defense systems.

→ Open Calls for Startups
In 2024, seven open calls for innovation were issued, attracting 150 applications from initiatives aiming to tackle national security challenges. As a result, 15 startups began working directly with DDR&D.. This demonstrates the growing importance of defense startups in shaping Israel’s technological landscape.

→ Growth of the ‘Green Lane’ Pathway
The ‘Green Lane’ fast-track program for defense startups grew to 207 companies, with 61 new companies joining in 2024. This program accelerates procurement processes and reduces bureaucratic barriers for innovative defense solutions.

→ Breakthrough Innovation in Multiple Sectors
Startups in autonomous systems, AI, cybersecurity, sensors, and life sciences saw an increase in funding and projects. Significant funding were made in AI-based surveillance, autonomous drone technology, and digital battlefield intelligence solutions.

→ 2 New Accelerator for startups

Innotal Accelerator -DDR&D and ATAL (Technological and Logistics Directorate) Innovation Program – Operated by the Israeli Innovation Institute, this program integrates groundbreaking Israeli technologies into the IDF via ATAL, focusing on fields like logistics, transportation, medicine, food and more. The first cohort welcomed 10 new startups, with the program set to expand to 20 startups in 2025.

DRISHTI Accelerator – A dual-use technology program helping MAFAT-backed startups enter India's civilian and defense ecosystems, in partnership with T-Hub, India’s largest startup accelerator. The first cohort welcomed 15 startups.

Strategic Takeaways for 2025

1. Speed and Agility Are Key

   The fast adoption of startup solutions during the war highlighted the need for rapid R&D and deployment. We must continue streamlining bureaucratic processes to ensure innovation reaches operational use swiftly.

2. Global Partnerships Matter - Government-To-Government
   During 2024, orders were issued under G2G projects totaling approximately 293.7 million ILS (equivalent to ~81 million USD) for 17 startups and small companies.

3. Ecosystem Development
   Mafat continues to support accelerator programs in Israel and worldwide, including Drishti, INNOFENSE and Innotal, ensuring the steady growth of Israel’s defense-tech ecosystem.

Looking Ahead into 2025

The coming year will focus on:
1. Strengthening public-private partnerships
2. Expanding international funding and collaborations
3. Accelerating adoption of dual-use technologies
4. Optimizing and expanding the ‘One-Stop Shop’ model to create a seamless, efficient, and structured process for startups engaging with MAFAT, ensuring better access to resources, guidance, and integration opportunities

5. New R&D Funding Mechanisms

The Israeli startup ecosystem is thriving, proving its resilience and capacity to drive technological advancements in national security. We look forward to another year of growth, impact, and bold innovation.

For more details or to get involved, reach out to us.

Best regards,
Mafat Innovation & Research Team

Selected startups collaborating with DDR&D (Mafat) will have the unique opportunity to showcase their technologies at the DDR&D exhibit in DSEI Japan.

As Japan's premier large-scale, fully integrated defense event, DSEI Japan—backed by the DSEI Japan Executive Committee—provides unmatched access to the Japanese and Indo-Pacific markets. This is an incredible platform to connect with key players and explore new opportunities in the defense industry.

To apply, click here

The world of defense technology is evolving rapidly, and we've got the latest updates to keep you in the loop. Grab a coffee, settle in, and let's dive into the cutting-edge innovations and key movements shaping the defense tech landscape today by mafat for startups.

🤩 Get to Know: Mafat For Startups

Mafat for Startups is a Defense & HLS innovation center for startups, innovators and tech leaders, as a bridge between the tech ecosystem and Israel's MOD & IDF.

Registration is open, HERE.

🇯🇵Mafat for Startups is taking you to Japan!

Selected startups collaborating with DDR&D (Mafat) will have the unique opportunity to showcase their technologies at the DDR&D exhibit in DSEI Japan.

As Japan's premier large-scale, fully integrated defense event, DSEI Japan—backed by the DSEI Japan Executive Committee—provides unmatched access to the Japanese and Indo-Pacific markets. This is an incredible platform to connect with key players and explore new opportunities in the defense industry.

To apply, click here

Israel MOD Completes $40 million Development and Procurement of Drones for IDF

Israel MOD Completes Development and Procurement of Drones for IDF

The Israeli Ministry of Defense through its DDR&D, has completed unprecedented research, development, and procurement of drones worth over $40 million during the current war, collaborating with small and medium-sized companies in the drone sector.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Notable acquisitions include multiple drone models from XTEND drones from CopterPIX PRO Ltd unmanned helicopter platforms from Steadicopter aerial logistics supply platforms from Air VEV, drones from SpearUAV, an interceptor drone from Airobotics and more.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

As Israel's national technological center, DDR&D spearheads collaboration with startups and small companies, establishing Israel as a global hub for drone innovation while boosting the economy and fostering the growth of emerging industries.

🇮🇱🇮🇳 Collaboration Between India and Israel: Launch of the DRISHTI Program

A Groundbreaking Technological Collaboration Between India and Israel: Launch of the DRISHTI Program 🇮🇱🇮🇳

The DRISHTI program (Dual-use Robust India-Israel High-Tech Innovation) aims to strengthen technological ties between India and Israel while fostering innovation, strategic partnerships, and advanced technologies. This program is a joint effort between the Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) DDR&D (MAFAT) - Directorate of Defense Research & Development and T-Hub, the world's largest accelerator based in Hyderabad. T-Hub has supported over 2,000 startups and focuses on areas such as AI, deep tech, and drones, maintaining partnerships with academia and the private sector.

The DRISHTI program's Center of Excellence (CoE), established within T-Hub, will host the India Market Access Program (IMAP), offering Israeli companies unique opportunities in the Indian market. Through IMAP, participants will gain exclusive access to India's expanding defense and technology sectors, receive support for collaborations with public and private companies, and benefit from customized mentorship aimed at successful market entry. The program provides strategic guidance for companies looking to establish a presence in India's dynamic business landscape, facilitating partnerships with investors and industry leaders.

💡 Call for startups from DDR&D

DDR&D at the Ministry of Defense and the Technological and Logistics Directorate are seeking innovative solutions for two challenges:
1. Advanced protective material to safeguard equipment from challenging environmental conditions.
2. Robotics and automation for equipment maintenance.

Click the link, share information about your technology, and get the opportunity to visit the IDF’s Technology and Maintenance Corps for a needs and challenges exposure tour.

Selected startups will enter a program with a grand prize of 200,000 ILS and gain entry into the Innotal program.

The DDR&D is actively seeking innovative technologies and groundbreaking research at the intersection of modern biology with data science, engineering, materials science, and physics.

For more information, please click the link HERE.

The DDR&D is seeking immediate and long-term solutions in the field of maritime systems.

The challenges focus on answers and proposals in the realm of maritime and marine technologies.

For more information, please click the link Here.

The IDF Medical Corps and DDR&D are seeking technological solutions for joint R&D to address two challenges:

1) Warrior Cooling Challenge:

A personal cooling system or a solution for cooling a group of soldiers in enclosed spaces (e.g., vehicles, tents, etc.) in hot climates.

2) Head Injury Challenge:

A battlefield solution for identifying and assessing brain injuries resulting from head trauma.

Apply here

Dorin Baniel Prediction for 2025:

1. As geopolitical tensions continue to increase, government spending on innovation will increase, sales cycles will decrease, and competition between startups and the DefenseTech giants, like Lockheed, will increase. This will start an acquisition momentum where defense contractors and SIs can potentially become active buyers. Once we start seeing repeatability of 1) growth milestones achieved and 2) exits in the DefenseTech space, VC money will pour in.

2. VC investments into DefenseTech will continue, and more funds that are “specializing” in defense will be established and succeed in raising money. Most will be small. I foresee it continuing for about a year or two, after which it will be more clear who is a “good” vs “bad” fund (i.e whose companies ran out of money before being able to raise additional funds), and some of the funds will reluctantly have to shut down. This is similar to the wave of non-traditional investors that we saw in 2021 - the countless new funds that were established given higher liquidation opportunities, and the sudden attractiveness of venture capital as an asset class. It’s clear we’re entering a DefenseTech VC bubble, so I urge founders to be careful who they take money from, VCs to be conservative in who they invest in, and to move slowly, because the exit path is still not clear… And while sales cycles are shortening, regulations are also going to become more prominent as governments continue to adopt more and more tools.

Last week we hosted the first-ever DefenseTech Summit at Tel Aviv University bringing together over 2,000 participants from around the world:

- Senior leaders from both the global and local defense industries, including Noam Perski, EVP at Palantir; Simon Brünjes, Managing Director of Land Systems at Helsing; and other prominent figures, as well as General Sir Nick Carter, former Chief of the Defence Staff of the British Army.

- High-ranking officials from Israel’s defense establishment.

- 100 ambassadors and foreign attachés attended, gaining firsthand insights into Israeli innovation.

- 100 participants participated in a hackathon held in memory of five fallen soldiers, developing innovative, life-saving technologies that were later showcased at the summit.

- A diverse audience from various sectors, including startups, policymakers, defense industries, researchers, venture capital funds, military developers, academics, and even 500 teenagers eager to enter the field!

Over the course of two days, the summit demonstrated Israel’s leadership in defense innovation through technology briefings, startup demonstrations, and collaborative sessions.

We extend our gratitude to all our partners, speakers, and attendees for making this event a success!