Home Air Finland buying Israeli David’s Sling air defense system in 316M Euro deal

Finland buying Israeli David’s Sling air defense system in 316M Euro deal

David's Sling test launch
Photo: Israeli defense ministry

Finland’s Ministry of Defense has notified the Israeli Ministry of Defense of their intent to purchase the David’s Sling advanced air defense system, which has an estimated value of around 316 million Euros.

The procurement of David’s Sling system is expected to enhance Finland’s ground-based air defense capabilities by extending its operational range. As stated in the request for quotation, the system’s minimum flight altitude requirement is 15,000 meters.

The procurement of David’s Sling system includes a main contract valued at approximately 213 million euros, as well as immediate options linked to the main contract that are worth 103 million euros. Additionally, there are further options available with a value of 216 million euros, but their exercise would require a separate decision.

As part of the procurement contract, the Israeli Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Defense of Finland will establish a separate agreement to guarantee the system’s supply security. This arrangement will ensure that critical system components remain available in all security situations.

“This acquisition will create a new capability for the Finnish Defence Forces to intercept targets at high altitude. At the same time we are continuing the ambitious and long-term development of Finland’s defence capability in a new security environment”, said Finnish Minister of Defence Antti Kaikkonen.

The David’s Sling system is a long-range air defense system developed jointly by Israel and the United States. Due to the involvement of the United States in the development of the system, the sale of the system to Finland is contingent upon approval through a sales release from the US government.