The Dror-1, Israel’s most advanced communications satellite, was launched into space on the early morning of last Sunday (13) by the Falcon 9 rocket from SpaceX.
The launch took place at Cape Canaveral, Florida (USA), using the two-stage rocket from Elon Musk’s company. The Dror-1, developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), successfully reached space.
“The satellite completed the launch process, and the initial readings received indicate that it is operating correctly,” said IAI in a statement.
According to IAI, the satellite weighs 4.5 tons and extends a total of 17.8 meters when its solar panels are fully deployed, while each antenna (reception dish) extends to 2.8 meters.
The satellite is expected to take about two weeks to reach its fixed position, at an altitude of around 36,000 kilometers, after several orbits around the Earth. After that, it should meet Israel’s communication needs for the next 15 years.
“The Dror-1 is the most advanced communications satellite ever built in Israel, designed to preserve this national strategic capability within the country while simultaneously providing Israel with essential satellite communication capabilities for the coming years,” said Boaz Levy, CEO and President of IAI.
🇮🇱📡 Lift-off!
Israel’s first national communications satellite, Dror 1, just launched aboard a @SpaceX Falcon 9.
Built by Israel Aerospace Industries, this $200M “smartphone in space” will power Israel’s strategic and civilian communications for 15 years.
A bold leap for… pic.twitter.com/xCNZWU5HNf
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) July 13, 2025
Photo and video: X @Israel. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
