The 5th edition of Asian Defence and Security Exhibition marks the celebration of ADAS’s 10th anniversary in the Philippines. The three day event opens in Manila on September 25 and will conclude on September 27, 2024.
Ahead of the event, Raksha Anirveda spoke to Maxim Zemer, Israel Aerospace Industries’ Senior Vice President of Marketing for Asia and Africa, to know about the IAI’s offerings at the ADAS. Maxim Zemer eloquently details IAI participation in the exhibition, its strong presence in Philippines and the potential of Asian defence market. Edited Excerpts….
RA: What systems will Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) be showcasing at the Asian Defence & Security Exhibition in the Philippines?
MZ: We are delighted to present the Barak MX, an advanced air and missile defence system that enables optimal launch and threat management. Furthermore, we will showcase the Lora, a long-range tactical ballistic missile designed for strategic target attacks, as well as the Heron Mk2 unmanned aerial vehicle, which has been adapted for long-range, medium-altitude flight and can perform both tactical and strategic operations. It is capable of simultaneously carrying different payloads for a wide range of missions.
Additionally, IAI will present Harop, a loitering munition designed to respond to a variety of combat scenarios and anti-terrorist activities. The system is equipped with cameras and the ability to scan, locate and precisely attack stationary and mobile targets, whether at sea or on land.
The MMR is a multi-mission radar for air defence, capable to track artillery, locate and classify all types of airborne targets, and produce a real-time aerial situational picture. IAI will also introduce an Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), which is used for detection, early warning, and gathering strategic intelligence information. Another key product in this exhibition is a Refueling Aircraft, which enables operations in the strategic theatre.
RA: Does IAI have any partnerships or collaborations currently in the Philippines?
MZ: Yes, we have collaborations in the Philippines, and we are also exploring new opportunities for further collaboration. IAI has a lot of experience in developing collaborations with local partners around the world and specifically within the Asian market. We would like to cultivate these connections and transfer knowledge and technology to local markets, to develop local capabilities that will benefit both parties.
RA: What’s the current state of the Asian defence market?
MZ: The Asian defence market has grown in the last few years with many countries in the region increasing their budgets by at least 5%, with others increasing it even further. At IAI, we consider the Asian defence market to be a significant one. The region has recently faced increased challenges which has led to an increase in budgets for acquiring the latest cutting-edge systems. We are excited to be at ADAS and to share our technologies, which are backed by extensive field-proven experience, and presents the optimal solutions for the region.
RA: Why does IAI view Asia as a strategic market? Within Asia broadly, do you see any subcategories of opportunity?
MZ: The Asian market has grown economically, it is also a hub for innovation and technology partnership, but most of all it is also a big defence market. As a global leader in the defence market, IAI can offer solutions for air, land, space and maritime domains. Our solutions are integrated with defence preparedness of many countries around the world, including those of the Israeli Navy. Looking at the broader picture in Asia, of which much is covered by sea, we are witnessing an increased interest in our naval and maritime solutions. We are confident that our systems, with their vast combat-proven experience, will contribute to the security of the continent most effectively.
RA: How diversified is IAI’s current business in Asia? What market sectors do you operate in?
MZ: As a world-class company, IAI is focused on developing cutting-edge technology and security solutions in several sectors, including aerospace, air defence, aviation, full combat naval solutions, radars, and electronic warfare. IAI can offer solutions for almost every need. We believe that the Asian defence market has significant potential in these areas.
RA: Where does IAI see the Asian defence market heading in the next 5 years?
MZ: The Asian market is a growing market and thus has great potential for those who can address the needs and provide the right solutions. We believe that in the next five years, the Asian defence market will be one of the major defence markets in the world. As such, IAI will continue investing in this market with long-term partnerships with local companies, transfer of technology, staff and supplying the best technology to our customers.
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