JAKARTA - Israel launched a new version of the spy satellite Ofek into orbit on Wednesday, with the Ministry of Defense saying the satellite will increase regional monitoring around the clock.
The launch, which had been planned months earlier, was overseen by Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, could be a strong signal he would remain in office, although Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced he would be fired amid a constitutional crisis.
Ofek-13, produced by state-owned company Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), is the latest satellite of a series of locally produced satellites first launched in 1988.
The satellite was launched with Shavit missiles over the Mediterranean Sea, a route to the west that Israel usually chooses as a precaution against sensitive technologies that fall into the hands of hostile neighboring Middle Eastern countries in the event of damage.
"We will continue to prove that the sky is not the limit for Israel's defense development," Gallant said in a statement.
Separately, IAI CEO Boaz Levy said, Ofek-13 is "the most sophisticated of its kind, with unique radar observation capabilities, and will enable intelligence gathering in all weather and visibility conditions".
Last Saturday, Gallant contradicted PM Netanyahu, calling for the termination of a judicial reshuffle plan that drew protests.
The next day, PM Netanyahu announced the sacking of Gallant, sparking a wave of anti-government protests and fueling US concerns about the health of Israeli democracy and military readiness.
🚀The Israel Ministry of Defense, IAI & IDF successfully launched the “Ofek 13” satellite at 02:10 IST today (Wednesday). The satellite entered orbit, has begun transmitting data, and completed an initial series of inspections in accordance with original launch plans 🚀 pic.twitter.com/sjdWn3SECT
— Ministry of Defense (@Israel_MOD) March 29, 2023
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