Israel launches the 'Ofek 19' satellite: 'Equipped with advanced capabilities'

On Tuesday evening Israel successfully launched the “Ofek 19” satellite into space. The project is a joint initiative of the Israeli Ministry of Defense, the IDF, and Israel Aerospace Industries. The launch was carried out from the Palmachim base. According to the original launch plan, the satellite entered its orbit around the Earth, began transmitting data, and underwent a successful series of initial tests.

In a statement from the Ministry of Defense it was written, “The Space Administration in Maf'at (Directorate of Defense Research and Development at the Ministry of Defense), the IDF, and Israel Aerospace Industries successfully launched the ‘Ofek 19’ satellite into space tonight at 10:30 p.m. The launch was carried out using a ‘Shavit’ satellite launcher from a test field in central Israel.”

Regarding the satellite’s capabilities, the Ministry of Defense stated, “The ‘Ofek 19’ satellite is a radar observation satellite with advanced capabilities. Upon entering its orbit around the Earth, the satellite will undergo a series of tests designed to verify its integrity and performance level.”

President Isaac Herzog: “I was excited to see the launch of ‘Ofek 19.’ This is the result of years of extraordinary, moving, and focused work that has reached places we cannot even imagine.”

Defense Minister Israel Katz: “This is a moment of great national pride. Israel once again proves its superiority as one of the world’s leading technological and security powers.”