Page 97 - Israel Defense Directory 2013-14

Naval warfare, with special emphasis on littoral defensive operations, has always played a significant
role in the planning, operational readiness and deterrence capability of Israel's defense forces.

Maintaining a modern fleet of surface vessels, optimized for littoral warfare, and a strong submarine
force, the Israel Navy constantly sought to gain superiority over its opponents by introducing
technological innovation based on indigenous capabilities.

Since the late 1970s Israel pioneered the concept of layered defense and sea-skimming anti-ship
missiles - a strategy that led to a perfect score during the 1973 war. Along with the local defense
industries, Israel is also leading the 21st century technology of 'networked operations', introducing
fully-integrated combat systems, comprising a wide range of domestic and foreign weapons, sensors,
and processing systems.

The Israeli industry is also building and equipping the manned and unmanned platforms used by the
navy, to maintain their offensive and defensive capability, providing the situational awareness,
command and control for naval operations. Specific Israeli systems are integrated into combat suits
designed by other navies and prime contractors, as part of international teaming and cooperation.

For coastal and EEZ security missions Israel offers a wide range of solutions, from manned and
unmanned aerial and surface vehicles to integrated naval, land-based and aerial platforms, carrying
maritime and coastal surveillance radars and EO sensors, and integrated communications systems.