Israel Inks $48M Artillery Deal with Elbit; Knesset Approves Massive 2026 War Budget

The Israeli Ministry of Defense announced on Monday, March 30, 2026, a $48 million order for tens of thousands of 155mm artillery shells from Elbit Systems. This move is part of a broader strategy to bolster domestic production and achieve "ammunition independence," making the IDF less vulnerable to foreign supply chain pressures and diplomatic leverage.

The "Lion’s Roar" Budget:

This procurement follows the Knesset's approval of the 2026 national budget, which includes a dramatic surge in defense spending. To support the ongoing "Operation Lion's Roar," an additional 30 billion NIS (~$10 billion) was allocated to the defense ministry, bringing its total budget to a record-breaking 142 billion NIS. The massive hike underscores Israel's pivot toward a long-term, high-intensity conflict economy.