Israel invests over $190 million in training for new artillery systems
“The agreement we signed is significant news for strengthening the power and readiness of the IDF"
Israel’s Defense Ministry has signed a 15-year agreement with Elbit Systems to build and support a training center for artillery crews preparing to operate the IDF’s next generation of howitzers and rocket launchers.
The deal, worth more than $190 million, or approximately NIS 600 million, will provide simulators, classrooms and other training infrastructure for soldiers and commanders using the SIGMA self-propelled howitzer and PULS rocket launcher system.
The project comes as the Artillery Corps prepares for the platforms’ full entry into operational service. According to the ministry, the facility is intended to shorten qualification courses and improve proficiency while reducing the expense and wear associated with training on operational equipment.
Driving and mission simulators will form part of the training program. Elbit will also provide instruction, maintenance and logistical support throughout the agreement.
The ministry’s Defense Procurement Directorate negotiated the contract through its Land Procurement Unit, working with the IDF Ground Forces.
Zeev Landau, the ministry’s deputy director general and head of the procurement directorate, said the investment would strengthen military readiness while supporting Israeli industry. He said combining simulation technology with long-term support would help artillery crews make fuller use of the new systems’ capabilities.
Boaz Cohen, executive vice president and general manager of Elbit Systems Land, said the training program was designed to deliver efficient instruction and maintain the Artillery Corps’ readiness. "Elbit, as a partner to the needs of the defense establishment and the IDF, has developed for the Ground Forces one of the world’s most advanced training and instruction arrays."