Washington, D.C. – Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), a global leader in aerospace and defense, has inaugurated its first innovation center in the United States, strategically located near Dulles Airport and Washington, D.C. This significant move, led by Chairman and former Israeli Defence Minister Amir Peretz, marks a crucial step in IAI’s commitment to advancing its collaboration within the U.S. defense and technology ecosystem.
The innovation center will serve as a cornerstone for IAI’s expanded focus on cutting-edge technological advancements in the U.S. market. This initiative aligns with the strategic vision set forth by IAI’s Board of Directors, which approved the company’s management plan presented by CEO Boaz Levy, along with key leadership including EVP for North America Amir Geva and EVP of Innovation and R&D Eitan Eshel.
IAI Catalyst Accelerator Program Unveiled
The center’s flagship program, IAI Catalyst, is a dynamic five-month accelerator designed to foster innovation across critical sectors such as AI & Autonomy, Quantum Science, Sustainability, Energy Tech, and Space Tech. The Catalyst accelerator, powered by leading aerospace and defense startup accelerator Starburst, will identify promising startups and provide them with the support necessary to thrive in both defense and commercial markets.
Each year, two cohorts of four startups will undergo a rigorous selection process to join the program. Startups selected for Catalyst will receive access to IAI’s technological and business expertise, office space, and financial backing, including a $100,000 investment. The startups will also collaborate with IAI’s engineering teams to co-develop future technologies that meet the needs of global clients and defense applications.
Fostering US-Israel Aerospace Cooperation
IAI’s new innovation hub aims to strengthen the company’s relationships with U.S. startup ecosystems, enabling deeper technological collaboration. It is expected to enhance the development of dual-use technologies for defense and civilian applications. The center will serve as a launchpad for innovations that contribute to both U.S. and Israeli defense capabilities, building on decades of cooperation between the two nations.
Amir Peretz, Chairman of IAI’s Board, emphasized the significance of the new center: “This innovation hub represents not only a milestone for IAI but also a testament to the enduring partnership between Israel and the U.S. Our shared values and vision for the future drive us to continuously innovate and break boundaries, and this center will be at the forefront of these efforts.”
IAI President and CEO Boaz Levy echoed this sentiment, noting that the center would elevate U.S.-Israeli collaboration to new heights. “The IAI Innovation Center will further solidify our strong defense and technological partnership with the U.S., fostering greater cooperation in security, civilian, and business sectors. This initiative demonstrates our commitment to advancing global security through innovation.”
Innovation with a Startup Spirit
The center’s working model reflects the startup ethos that has defined Israel’s “Start-up Nation” spirit. IAI’s EVP of Innovation and R&D, Eitan Eshel, highlighted the center’s unique approach, providing startups with direct access to IAI’s experienced engineers and resources. “Our innovation center is designed to fast-track the development of unique technologies, enabling startups to demonstrate their capabilities within weeks,” Eshel explained.
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Looking forward, IAI plans to expand its innovation initiatives with additional programs to foster continuous growth within the aerospace industry, ensuring the sustained development of advanced technologies for defense and commercial markets.
IAI: A Legacy of Excellence
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is recognized globally for its leadership in delivering state-of-the-art technologies across various domains, including space, air, land, naval, cyber, and homeland security. With decades of combat-proven experience and a culture of innovation, IAI provides cutting-edge solutions such as UAVs, missiles, air defense systems, intelligence platforms, and much more, positioning itself as a leader in both defense and commercial markets worldwide.
IAI’s latest initiative reflects its commitment to innovation and collaboration, further enhancing its role as a key player in global aerospace and defense.