Rafael partners with Lulav Space for next-generation drone interception

In a powerful display of Israeli technological synergy, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has joined forces with Haifa-based startup Lulav Space to develop an advanced drone interception system. The partnership promises to reshape the future of low-altitude air defense with cost-effective, precision-driven innovation that operates independently of GPS.

Lulav Space, founded in 2021 by alumni of the Beresheet 1 lunar mission, specializes in compact and efficient vision-based navigation systems. Unlike radar or lidar systems, Lulav's image-analysis-based guidance tools are lighter, more affordable, and crucially immune to GPS disruptions. This makes them uniquely valuable in modern conflict zones, where jamming and spoofing are common threats.

The collaboration comes at a strategic moment. Rafael recently established a dedicated unit within its Air Defense Division to focus on very low-altitude threats an area increasingly targeted by drones and UAVs. This is the same division responsible for Israel’s acclaimed Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and the soon-to-be-deployed Iron Beam laser defense system.

According to Yossi Margalit, Rafael VP and head of C-UAS & Low Altitude Air & Missile Defense Systems, the merger of Rafael’s operational expertise with Lulav’s agility and innovation is set to “develop interception solutions for an evolving range of enemy scenarios” faster and cheaper than ever before. “This synergy is unlocking a new class of global defense solutions,” he added.

For Lulav Space, the agreement marks a pivotal milestone. CEO Dr. Noam Leiter sees the collaboration as a launchpad into broader markets, stating that their technology already selected for the Beresheet 2 mission is now being prepared for a variety of air defense applications, from solo drone threats to complex swarm scenarios.

One of the most critical aspects of Lulav’s technology is its ability to function without GPS. This is particularly vital in areas plagued by electronic warfare, where GPS signals are jammed or spoofed to mislead or crash drones. Such interference has disrupted civilian navigation tools in Israel during escalations with Hezbollah and Iran, underlining the urgent need for more robust solutions.

Lulav’s navigation system remains accurate and autonomous in GPS-denied environments, giving it a major edge in both military and commercial settings. It also fits perfectly into Rafael’s strategy of integrating deep tech into its defense arsenal a move further backed by partnerships with Israeli investors like Elron Ventures.

As the global market for counter-UAV technologies surges projected to triple from $4.5 billion to $14.5 billion by the end of the decade Rafael aims to secure a dominant share with its latest innovation-driven partnerships. The deal with Lulav Space is more than a business agreement; it’s a powerful reminder that when Israeli ingenuity meets proven defense leadership, the results can change the face of global security.

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