Israeli defense systems are reportedly helping protect Gulf air forces from Iranian missiles and drones despite the absence of formal relations.
Israel has reportedly supplied Saudi Arabia and Qatar with advanced aircraft-defense and avionics systems through indirect deals approved by the Israeli Defense Ministry.
The technology was incorporated into official American procurement packages through subcontracting agreements with major US aerospace companies, including Boeing. The reported deals are estimated to be worth hundreds of millions of shekels.
Among the systems supplied is Elbit Systems’ C-MUSIC laser-based protection system, designed to detect and disrupt heat-seeking shoulder-fired missiles targeting aircraft. The system was reportedly installed on executive aircraft and planes used by Qatar’s royal fleet.
