What’s happening:
Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, a key player in Israel’s defense industry, has ramped up operations to provide uninterrupted support to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) as they engage in ongoing conflicts with Hamas. The company has been operating non-stop since October 7, with employees working around the clock to ensure the IDF is fully equipped.
Why it matters:
The dedication of Rafael’s workforce underscores the collective effort and resilience of the Israeli defense sector during times of conflict. The company’s ability to maintain continuous production is vital for the IDF’s operational readiness and effectiveness in the field.
By the numbers:
With a workforce of 8,500, nearly 20% of Rafael’s employees are IDF reservists who have been called up for duty. Despite this, the remaining staff, including those from development divisions, have stepped up to fill roles on the production lines, ensuring that the company’s output meets military demands.
On the ground:
Employees like Yehiel, a 33-year-old ultra-Orthodox Jew and father of four, exemplify the commitment of Rafael’s staff. Yehiel responded to a call from his workplace to assist on the production line immediately after being alerted during holiday services. Even after being called up for reserve duty, he returned to Rafael’s production line following his service on the northern border.
Shahar, a 36-year-old father of three who usually works on rocket engine development, also joined the production efforts. He expresses a strong sense of mission and satisfaction in contributing directly to the IDF’s capabilities.
Yossi, a 69-year-old retiree from Rafael, has returned to volunteer full-time since the outbreak of the war, working late into the evenings and on Saturdays, driven by a desire to contribute to Israel’s security.
The bigger picture:
The collective effort at Rafael Advanced Defense Systems not only showcases the industry’s agility in times of need but also reflects a broader sense of unity among Israelis in the face of adversity. Employees at Rafael, from various backgrounds and stages in life, are coming together to fortify the nation’s defense capabilities, demonstrating a strong national spirit and determination.
This story was first published on ynetnews.