Israeli Defense-Tech Sector Expands Amid Global AI Adoption and Security Needs
The Israeli defense-tech industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by increased demand for AI-based systems and a changing global security landscape. According to a report by GotFriends, a recruiting firm, the number of new jobs in the defense-tech sector has risen by 20% in 2026 compared to the previous year, with wages increasing by about 8%. This growth is attributed to the rising need for advanced technologies such as drones, autonomous systems, and cybersecurity solutions. The report highlights that approximately 800 Israeli startups are receiving procurement orders from the Ministry of Defense, allowing them to test and improve their technologies in real-world conditions. This shift is also bringing hardware engineers back into focus, as the development of physical infrastructure becomes crucial for these advanced systems.