Israel’s Ministry of Defense, Navy, and Israel Shipyards marked the launch of the "Reshef" warship production project in the formal steel-cutting formal ceremony, held yesterday (Tuesday). 

As part of the deal, led by outgoing Director General of the Ministry of Defense, Major General (Res.) Eyal Zamir (who will soon become the IDF Chief of Staff), five advanced warships will be produced at a total cost of approximately NIS 2.8 billion. 

The Reshef-class ships are intended to replace the aging Sa'ar 4.5 (Nirit-class) ships, which have been in service for nearly four decades. The first vessel is expected to be delivered to the Israeli Navy in three and a half years.

The project marks a significant milestone in strengthening Israel’s defense manufacturing independence, aligning with the Ministry of Defense’s "Blue and White" (made in Israel) policy. 

Domestic production ensures the preservation of strategic knowledge and capabilities, enhances continuity in defense manufacturing, and is expected to provide jobs for hundreds of workers, primarily in northern Israel.

Acting Director General of the Ministry of Defense, Itamar Graf, stated, "The Ministry of Defense's insistence on bringing warship production back to Israel will strengthen manufacturing independence and bolster strategic production lines." 

Navy Commander Vice Admiral David Saar Salama emphasized the importance of the new ships in addressing diverse maritime security challenges. Sami Katsav, Chairman of Israel Shipyards, expressed pride in the project’s contribution to national security and the economic development of northern Israel.