Israel Just Launched Its Most Advanced Satellite Ever – And the World Is Watching
Dror 1’s launch strengthens Israel’s communications infrastructure, reducing dependence on foreign satellites, which is critical for national security, especially amid ongoing conflicts.
TwitterIsrael’s first national communications satellite, Dror 1, soared into orbit on July 13, 2025, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, at 5:04 UTC (8:04 a.m. Israel time).
Built by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for approximately $200 million, this geostationary satellite is designed to meet Israel’s civilian and defense communication needs for the next 15 years. “Dror 1 boasts advanced digital communication payloads and cutting-edge Israeli technology, ensuring flexibility and independence in a critical domain.
Dror 1, weighing around 4,000 kg, was developed on IAI’s AMOS-HP Bus platform, featuring a fully digital payload with “smartphone-like” capabilities, allowing real-time updates and adaptability in orbit. Positioned 36,000 km above Earth in geostationary orbit, it ensures round-the-clock connectivity for military, intelligence, and civilian communications, including Ku and likely Ka-band services. The satellite, contracted by the Israeli government in January 2020 for $59 million, represents a push for self-reliance after IAI lost contracts with commercial operator Spacecom. Its development leveraged local technologies, with components already in advanced stages by 2021, despite pandemic challenges.
The launch, dubbed “Commercial GTO 1” by SpaceX, saw the Falcon 9’s B1083 booster land successfully on the *Just Read the Instructions* droneship after its 13th flight. Dror 1 is now maneuvering to its final orbital position, a process expected to take about two weeks as it deploys solar panels and antennas. IAI’s expertise, honed through projects like the Ofek 16 spy satellite, proves Dror 1’s significance as Israel’s most advanced communications satellite to date.