Israel launches 'Ofek 13' reconnaissance satellite into space

A new Israeli spy satellite, Ofek 13, has successfully been launched into space, the Defense Ministry, along with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), confirmed late on Tuesday night.

The launch was carried out using a Shavit 2 satellite launcher from an open space in the center of the country.

Ofek 13 is an advanced observation satellite, the Defense Ministry explained, adding that once it enters the orbit, "it will undergo a series of tests to ensure its propriety and performance levels."

The development and production of the satellite was led by the Defense Ministry through the IDF Space Directorate, and several other IDF units have been involved in the process, including Intelligence Division Unit 9900 and the Israeli Air Force.

Head of the Defense Ministry Space Directorate Avi Berger explained that "Ofek 13 is a radar-based observation satellite with the most advanced capabilities of its kind in the world, all of which are the result of Israeli development. 

"The launch was successful, according to the plan. The first indications from the satellite are also excellent," he continued, providing updates from the launch itself.

"In the coming weeks, we will complete the technical tests and receive the first images, in preparation for the transfer of the satellite for operational use in the IDF."

Israel's Ofek satellites

The Ofek 13 satellite is the latest to join a series of Ofek reconnaissance satellites, the first of which was launched in 1888.

The most recent satellite to have been launched prior to the Ofek 13 was the Ofek 16, which was launched on July 6, 2020, also with the Shavit 2 satellite launcher.