IDF’s Deadly Arsenal: Israel’s Weapons (2025)

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) possess one of the world’s most advanced and formidable military arsenals.

From cutting-edge fighter jets and precision-guided missiles to heavy armored vehicles and autonomous drones—each weapons system plays a vital role in the defense of the State of Israel.

Here are some of the most strategically significant weapons in active service as of 2025.

Want to see Hamas’s weapons? Click here.

Note: We do not take sides in the conflict—we examine the weapons of both parties.

IWI Jericho 941 – The Elite Forces’ Trusted Sidearm

This Israeli-designed 9mm pistol is standard issue among the IDF’s special forces. The Jericho 941 is known for its durability, accuracy, and user-friendliness. While Glock models are also common, the Jericho holds a special status as a symbol of Israel’s domestic weapons production.

M4A1 Carbine – The Workhorse of the Reserves

The American-made M4A1 5.56mm assault rifle remains standard in many of the IDF’s reserve units and special forces. Lightweight, accurate, and compatible with modern attachments, it is gradually being phased out as Israeli alternatives gain traction.

Elbit Skylark – Infantry’s Eyes in the Sky

Skylark drones are hand-launched mini-UAVs that provide infantry units with instant aerial reconnaissance. They are especially valuable in urban environments where rapid situational awareness can save lives and shape battlefield outcomes.

Cardom 120 mm – Mobile Firepower on the Frontline

Cardom is an Israeli self-propelled mortar, typically mounted on armored platforms like the M113 and Namer. It delivers precise indirect fire support and is widely used in Gaza and border security operations, where flexible and effective firepower is crucial.

Spike Missile Series – Versatile Precision Against Armor

The Spike family includes a wide range of anti-tank missiles with varying ranges, deployable from the shoulder or vehicles. They form the backbone of the IDF’s anti-armor capabilities and are employed in both conventional and asymmetric warfare environments.

Namer – Armored Protection for the Infantry

Based on the Merkava tank, the Namer is one of the most heavily protected armored personnel carriers (APCs) in the world. It combines firepower, protection, and mobility—essential for missions where survivability and operational impact go hand in hand.

Elbit Hermes 900 – Strategic Aerial Surveillance

The Hermes 900 is a medium-sized UAV with long range and endurance. It is used for strategic reconnaissance, target designation, and intelligence operations, including missions in Lebanon and Gaza.

F-16I “Sufa” – All-Round Airpower with Custom Enhancements

The F-16I Sufa is an upgraded version of the classic fighter jet, specifically tailored for the IDF with Israeli electronics and extended range. It is used for both air-to-air combat and deep precision strikes in hostile territory.

Iron Dome – The World’s Most Effective Missile Defense

Since 2011, Iron Dome has intercepted thousands of rockets and mortars with a documented success rate above 90%. The system protects critical infrastructure and civilian areas and is considered one of the most effective defensive systems globally.

Dolphin-Class Submarines – Israel’s Silent Deterrent

These German-built, Israeli-modified submarines form a central part of Israel’s maritime defense and strategic deterrence. Capable of launching cruise missiles—possibly with nuclear warheads—from covert positions, they represent a hidden but potent threat.

F-35I Adir – The Spearhead of Israeli Air Power

This stealth multirole fighter is the most advanced aircraft in the region. Enhanced with integrated Israeli technology, the F-35I is used for deep air operations and precision strikes. Israel was the first country to deploy the aircraft in combat.

Arrow 3 – Defense Against Strategic Missile Threats

Arrow 3 is the crown jewel of Israel’s layered missile defense system. Designed to intercept ballistic missiles outside Earth’s atmosphere, it serves as the nation’s final shield against threats from countries like Iran.

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.