ILA Berlin 2026 opens under shadow of Iran war

Despite the looming shadow of war with Iran, more than a dozen Israeli defense companies are showcasing their battle-proven systems at ILA Berlin, one of Europe's premier aviation and defense exhibitions. The event, running from June 10-14, 2026, features over 750 exhibitors from 37 countries, with Israel's participation underscoring its growing role in the global defense market.

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comes amid a record-breaking year for Israeli defense exports, which surpassed the $19 billion threshold in 2025, driven in part by the expansion of the Arrow 3 deal with Germany.

Israeli firms are presenting a wide array of technologies, spanning aerospace, air defense, unmanned platforms, counter-drone solutions, radar, electronic warfare, and AI-driven command and situational awareness systems. This includes major players like Israel Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems, and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, alongside smaller companies such as Aeromaoz and Uvision. Their offerings are attracting interest from nations and companies looking to rearm amid rising defense budgets across Europe, fueled by ongoing conflicts and regional rivalries.

Israel's presence at ILA Berlin comes during a record-breaking year for its defense exports, which surpassed $19 billion in 2025, partly due to the expansion of the Arrow 3 deal with Germany. Germany itself is undergoing a significant defense transformation, committing to substantial increases in spending, initiating major procurement programs, and aiming to become Europe's strongest military power. This strategic shift creates numerous opportunities for international defense suppliers.

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Israel’s participation in the exhibition reflects the Ministry’s strategy to deepen defense and strategic cooperation with Germany, and the significant potential for expanding business partnerships with German industry and additional European nations.

Brig.-Gen. (res.) Yair Kulas, Director of the International Defense Cooperation Directorate (SIBAT), stated that Israel's participation reflects a strategy to deepen defense and strategic cooperation with Germany and explore business partnerships with other European nations. While pro-Palestinian protesters were present on the opening day, the Defense Ministry views the exhibition as a vital platform for advancing strategic partnerships. The Berlin Air Show is increasingly recognized as a defense hub, expanding beyond aerospace to encompass broader defense and security technologies.

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the exhibition serves as an important platform to advance and deepen strategic partnerships – both with Germany and with other friendly nations across Europe.