IAI’s developed national communication satellite begins its mission for the State of Israel
IAI (Israel Aerospace Industries), announced today that Israel’s national communications satellite, ‘Dror 1’, successfully reached its planned altitude of 36,000 km, and began its space mission for the State of Israel. On entering its planned trajectory, the satellite began to send images from cameras mounted on it. These indicate the proper deployment of the solar panels, the communication antennas, and activation of the main engine responsible for placing the satellite in its intended orbit.
IAI’s President and CEO, Boaz Levy: “The first telemetry received from Israel’s national communications satellite ‘Dror 1’ not only confirms its proper functioning and successful entry into orbit but also marks another significant milestone in Israel’s journey toward independence in space. Together with the keen sense of responsibility that Israel Aerospace Industries feels regarding the State of Israel’s strategic decision, IAI is proud to be leading the country’s space activities and provide the State with independent capabilities in space. The next generation of communications satellites, such as ‘Dror 1,’ reflects engineering innovation and a deep understanding of future challenges, which will provide Israel with advanced solutions for a wide range of needs.”
A new national communication satellite
IAI launched the satellite on July 13, 2025, using a Falcon 9 satellite launcher from the SpaceX launch site in Cape Canaveral, USA. On completion of the launch process, the satellite transmitted initial telemetry indicating its proper functioning and after a series of tests conducted by IAI’s men and women engineers, updates were received as to the satellite’s successful entry into its orbit. The satellite underwent a long journey until its reached its final goal, completed a long series of checks and maneuvers in space, orchestrated from IAI’s control station including adjustments that brought it successfully to its desired altitude and orbit.
IAI is the State of Israel’s space house and has been leading Israel’s space programs since the 1980s.The company developed, manufactured, and launched a series of communications and observation satellites which are at the forefront of technology for scientific, civilian, and national missions in Israel and throughout the world.
‘Dror 1’ is a national, Israeli-developed and-produced communications satellite, one of the most advanced of its kind in the world, with a wealth of innovative capabilities, and is designed to provide a solution to the communications needs of the State of Israel for the years to come. Designed and developed in Israel by IAI, it features unique advanced communications capabilities that will enable flexible communication throughout its years of operation.
