Ofeq (also rendered Ofek) is Israel’s observation-satellite series, and Shavit is the launcher used to place its satellites in low Earth orbit. Israel’s Ministry of Defense, IDF and IAI launched Ofek 19 on September 2, 2025 using a three-stage Shavit vehicle. The ministry said the satellite entered orbit, began transmitting and underwent initial tests.
Satellite and launcher
IAI developed and manufactured Ofek 19 and Shavit as lead contractor. The Ministry of Defense said the satellite program dates to 1988 and is led by its Directorate of Defense Research and Development Space Program Office with IDF participation. IAI’s space division led the project; its ELTA group produced the payload, while other companies contributed to the launcher and rocket engines.
IAI describes Shavit as a three-stage launcher powered by solid-fuel rocket motors and used to launch Ofeq satellites. Launching from Israel’s Mediterranean coast constrains the available flight path. The launcher travels west over the sea, away from populated land, and does not gain the energy boost normally provided by launching eastward with Earth’s rotation.
What Ofek 19 does
After commissioning, command of Ofek 19 was to transfer to Unit 9900, the IDF’s visual and geospatial intelligence unit. The Ministry of Defense identifies it as an observation satellite.
The Ministry’s launch announcement identifies the date, partners and commissioning process. IAI’s Shavit product page gives the launcher’s stages and propulsion. Read about the other IAI platforms in the UAV comparison.