TEL AVIV, Israel—Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is the new name for the Israeli company formerly known as RAFAEL Armament Development Authority, which has been undergoing an extensive assessment and overhaul of its business activities.
“I am convinced that the changes that have been implemented, with the full cooperation of employees and unions, will assist Rafael in more effectively fulfilling its technological potential and national obligations, as well as achieving all of its business objectives, Yedidia Yaari, the company’s president and CEO, said in a recent statement.
According to Yaari, the name change was timed to coincide with other changes and the new name better expresses the nature of the company.
Rafael has been evaluating its business units and creating a new strategic plan to better meet its obligations while retaining its vital human resources, the company said. It will operate now as three divisions that include Missiles and NCW (Net-Centric Warfare), Ordnance and Protection and the Manor–Advanced Defense Technologies Division.
The Missile Division develops, designs and produces a wide range of missile systems, electro-optic systems for target acquisition and laser-range finding, as well as naval weapon systems and more. “Within this division, the Intelligence and NCW sector has been established, which will combine the division’s reputation and advanced capabilities in the field of missiles with the achievements and expertise acquired in the field of C4ISR,” Rafael said.
The Ordnance and Protection Division designs, develops and produces ordnance and protection systems for land forces and for underwater purposes and includes Rafael’s wide range of armor and protection products, remote controlled weapon stations, counter-IED solutions and others.
The Manor Division is devoted to the fields of space and propulsion, breaching solutions and the development of many of Rafael’s core technologies, the company said.
In addition, Rafael has decided to open a Business Development Department dedicated to the company’s business activities including mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures and partnerships [and staving off privatization].