Haifa, Israel. Elbit Systems Ltd has been awarded contracts worth $210 million from the Israel Ministry of Defence for the upgrade of Merkava Main Battle Tanks (MBTs).
The contracts will be performed over a period of six years. Under these contracts, Elbit Systems will carry out an extensive renewal of the electronic assemblies of the tanks to extend their operational service life, as well as the upgrade and enhancement of multiple onboard systems.
Among these are high‑performance, lightweight, AI‑enhanced electro‑optical sights that provide panoramic day‑ and night‑time observation, along with advanced target detection, acquisition, and tracking capabilities. The contracts also include the supply of spare parts and the provision of comprehensive maintenance and support services.
Bezhalel (Butzi) Machlis, President and CEO of Elbit Systems, said, “Elbit Systems is proud to continue serving as a key partner of the Israel Ministry of Defence and the Israel Defence Forces in advancing their technological capabilities. These new contracts reflect our ongoing commitment to providing cutting‑edge solutions that enhance the operational effectiveness and survivability of Israel’s armoured platforms.”
Elbit Systems has developed systems for tanks target acquisition, battle management, laser warning, weapon stations, surveillance, fire control (FC), turret drive and a full range of countermeasures.
Israeli sources said that the contract is aimed to upgrade Merkava tanks based on the lessons from recent war.
-The writer is an Israel-based freelance journalist. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
