From the deserts of the Negev to the densely packed streets of Gaza, Israel has developed a wide range of weapons tailored to the unique challenges of its battlefield environments.
By David Brummer
These innovations—ranging from advanced missile systems to compact urban firearms—are not only critical to the country’s defense but have become global benchmarks in military technology.
Below is a look at some of the most influential Israeli-made weapons, each playing a distinct role in the country’s defense strategy.
Negev Light Machine Gun (LMG)
Developed by Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) in the 1990s, the Negev is a versatile light machine gun built for reliability in the harshest conditions.
Chambered primarily in 5.56×45mm NATO, with variants in 7.62mm, it allows both belt-fed and magazine-fed operation.
With features like a quick-change barrel and adjustable rate of fire, the Negev serves as a backbone for infantry squads, offering sustained firepower with remarkable durability and accuracy.
Spike Anti-Tank Missile
The Spike family of missiles, produced by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, is a series of precision-guided weapons designed for use against tanks, bunkers, and helicopters.
With variants ranging from short-range (SR) to long-range (NLOS, or “non-line-of-sight”) reaching up to 25 kilometers, the Spike can be launched from ground platforms, helicopters, or naval vessels.
It uses advanced electro-optical guidance, including real-time data links and top-attack modes, to deliver pinpoint strikes on both stationary and moving targets.
“Tank Killer” Systems
While not the official name of any one weapon, “Tank Killer” is a nickname commonly applied to Israel’s most powerful anti-armor systems, particularly the Spike missile family and loitering munitions like the IAI Harop.
These systems are part of a broader Israeli doctrine focused on rapid, precise elimination of enemy armor, often using real-time intelligence and layered strike capabilities.
Whether launched from infantry units or drones, these weapons give Israel a decisive edge in neutralizing armored threats.
Desert Eagle
Although largely produced and marketed by U.S.-based Magnum Research, the Desert Eagle handgun was originally designed in partnership with Israel Military Industries (now IWI).
Known for its massive size and powerful calibers (.357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and .50 AE), the gas-operated semi-automatic pistol gained fame in movies and civilian markets.
While not widely adopted for military use, the Desert Eagle reflects Israeli engineering aimed at unique performance and iconic design.
Corner Shot
Designed by Israeli counterterrorism veterans, the Corner Shot is a revolutionary weapon attachment that allows operators to see and shoot around corners without exposing themselves to enemy fire.
By mounting a pistol or grenade launcher on a hinged frame with a forward-facing camera and screen, soldiers can engage threats from relative safety.
Widely used in hostage rescue and urban warfare, it exemplifies Israel’s tactical focus on minimizing risk in complex environments.
Merkava IV Main Battle Tank
The Merkava IV is the crown jewel of Israel’s armored forces, designed from the ground up for crew protection and adaptability.
Armed with a 120mm smoothbore gun and outfitted with modular armor and the Trophy Active Protection System, the tank can take on enemy armor, infantry, and anti-tank threats simultaneously.
Its unique front-mounted engine and rear troop compartment reflect Israel’s priority on survivability and versatility, especially in urban or asymmetric warfare.
Trophy Active Protection System (APS)
Trophy, developed by Rafael, is the first combat-proven active protection system designed to neutralize incoming threats like anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs).
Using a 360-degree radar and a computer-controlled countermeasure launcher, Trophy detects, tracks, and destroys incoming projectiles before they reach the vehicle.
Now deployed on Merkava tanks and Namer APCs, Trophy has dramatically improved crew survival rates in close-combat scenarios.
Countering ATGMs, RPGs & HEAT Rounds
Due to the widespread use of anti-tank weapons by adversaries, Israel has developed a multi-layered defense approach to counteract ATGMs, RPGs, and high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds.
Solutions include the Trophy APS, explosive reactive armor (ERA), and battlefield tactics such as rapid maneuvering and urban concealment.
These efforts reflect a national doctrine deeply shaped by asymmetric warfare and the persistent threat of ambushes and guerilla attacks.
X95 Micro Tavor
An evolution of the original Tavor TAR-21 rifle, the X95 Micro Tavor is a compact, bullpup-configured assault rifle developed by IWI for close-quarters battle.
Highly modular, it allows for caliber changes (including 5.56mm, 9mm, and .300 Blackout) and is compatible with modern optics and accessories.
The X95’s compact design, accuracy, and ease of use have made it a standard-issue weapon for IDF infantry and special forces, especially in dense urban terrain.
MATADOR Anti-Structure Weapon
The MATADOR is a lightweight, man-portable recoilless weapon designed for use against armored vehicles, bunkers, and fortified structures.
Jointly developed by Israel and Singapore, it features dual warhead settings for anti-armor or anti-structure operations.
Its relatively low weight and ease of use make it a vital breaching tool for infantry units operating in urban environments, where clearing enemy positions and creating new entry points are crucial.
Uzi Submachine Gun
Few weapons are as iconic as the Uzi. Designed in the late 1940s by Uziel Gal, this compact submachine gun became a symbol of Israeli innovation and resilience.
Simple to manufacture, reliable under pressure, and highly compact, the Uzi served IDF forces for decades and has been exported to over 90 countries.
Though largely replaced by modern assault rifles, it remains a legendary firearm and a cultural icon of Israeli military history.
Israel’s weapons development is driven by the country’s need for rapid adaptation, innovation, and survivability in an evolving security environment. From high-tech anti-tank systems to urban combat tools like the Corner Shot, these weapons reflect both tactical ingenuity and real-world battlefield experience. As global demand for these technologies grows, Israel continues to shape the future of modern warfare.
