The Space Administration, which operates within the framework of the Ministry of Defense's Space and Defense Development Agency, and the Israel Aerospace Industries launched the 'Ofek 10' satellite into space tonight (Tuesday) at 10:15 PM.
The launch was carried out using a Shavit satellite launcher, from the test field at the Palmachim base.
In the coming days, Israel Aerospace Industries and the Ministry of Defense will monitor the satellite's entry into space and examine its full entry into operation, which should enhance Israel's capabilities on a global scale.
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The Ofek 10 satellite is a radar-based observation satellite (SAR), with advanced capabilities for day, night, and all-weather photography.
The Ministry of Defense, led by the Israel Defense Forces, and through the Israel Aerospace Industries and other industries, developed and produced the "Ofek 10" satellite as well as the "Shavit" launcher.
Defense officials said that the initial stages of the launch were a success.
Earlier today, the Israeli defense establishment recorded another achievement - the Air Force's first C-130J Super Hercules aircraft landed at Nevatim Base, where it was received in a festive ceremony in the presence of the Minister of Defense, the Chief of Staff, the Air Force Commander, and senior officers from IDF units.
The plane, which will be nicknamed "Samson," is the latest and upgraded version of the veteran Hercules aircraft that has been in service with the Air Force since 1971. Israel signed a huge deal worth approximately $250 million with the US and Lockheed Martin, which manufactures the plane, to purchase three aircraft of the advanced model, which was designed and developed with an emphasis on mission flexibility - transferring forces and supplies to combat zones, performing aerial refueling, special operations, assisting disaster areas, and humanitarian missions.
