Israeli defense firms target Asia as Singapore Airshow opens amid regional arms race
IAI, Rafael, and Elbit showcase advanced systems against the backdrop of South China Sea tensions.
Tensions in the South China Sea and the arms race being waged by many Asian countries form the backdrop to the Singapore Airshow, which opens on Tuesday, where Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Rafael, and Elbit Systems are among the Israeli companies presenting their latest developments.
Rafael plans to showcase its tactical loitering munitions at the event, including the Spike system it is set to supply to Vietnam in the coming years. The company will also present a range of air-to-ground missiles, including Rocks and Ice Breaker, as well as the Litening-5 targeting pod, which directs precision munitions to their designated targets. According to Rafael, the system is currently integrated on 26 types of fighter jets operated by around 30 air forces worldwide.
Asia-Pacific is the second-largest target market for Israel’s defense industries. In 2024, Israeli defense exports totaled $14.8 billion, with 23% directed to this region. That same year, Europe, engaged in an intense arms buildup following the Russia-Ukraine war, was Israel’s largest export destination, accounting for about 50% of total defense sales.
Beyond the commercial opportunities created by rising tensions in the South China Sea, other conflict zones across the continent may further support Israeli defense industries, particularly the long-standing rivalry between India and Pakistan. In mid-2025, the Indian Air Force launched Operation Sindoor, a two-day campaign during which it struck dozens of targets in the Pakistani-controlled region of Kashmir.
The continuing conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors is accelerating their military procurement in preparation for future confrontations. India remains a major customer of Israel’s defense sector and has already partnered with Israel Aerospace Industries to develop the Barak-8 air defense missile system.
