In 2023, as Israel prepares to export its independently developed Mekava tank for the first time, the global defense market is filled with an atmosphere of anticipation. This move underscores Israel’s strategic shift in military assets management amidst a complex geopolitical landscape. According to reports, the first customers slated to receive the renowned tanks are Cyprus and Morocco, albeit the earlier models – the Merkava 2s from the 1980s and Merkava 3s from the 1990s. The decision to sell these storied battle tanks to foreign nations marks a significant pivot for Israel, a nation noted for its top-ten position among the world’s arms exporters.
This new venture comes at a time when European nations are seeking to replenish their arsenals, having donated their own tanks to support Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s invasion. The Merkava, a battle-tested main battle tank first deployed in 1979, is known for its unique design tailored to the specific operational needs of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). With its front-mounted engine for increased crew protection and the inclusion of the Trophy active protection system to counter anti-tank projectiles, the Merkava has proved its mettle in various conflicts, most notably in Lebanon in 1982 against Syrian T-72s.
Efraim Inbar, president of the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security, was quoted saying, “The Merkava is significant because it’s a high-profile system. It’s not something you just put on an airplane or an armored vehicle. You can’t hide it.” Indeed, the sale of such a system is not merely a commercial transaction but a reflection of strategic alliances and political signals, particularly for Morocco, which is seen as a highly visible symbol of its warming relations with Israel. For Cyprus, acquiring these tanks could serve as a counterbalance to its strained relationship with Turkey, further complicated by the US lifting its arms embargo on Cyprus in 2022.
Despite the potential sale, Israel remains cautious about involving itself in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. A condition set forth for Cyprus and Morocco is that the tanks must not be transferred to Ukraine, ensuring that the Merkava tanks do not end up on Ukrainian battlefields. This stipulation is part of Israel’s broader effort to maintain regional stability and avoid escalations that could affect its own national security concerns.
While the export of the Merkava is a historic occasion, it is occurring during a time when Israel is bolstering its armored forces. The IDF has recently halted its planned exportation of Merkava tanks in favor of expanding readiness amid conflicts, such as the recent war in Gaza. During this time, the IDF has been enhancing its armored capabilities with adaptations to counter threats such as drone attacks, and an increased production of armored vehicles has been reported in response to operational demands.
Relevant articles:
– Israel’s workhorse Merkava tank could soon be refilling foreign arsenals depleted by the war in Ukraine, Business Insider, Jul 17, 2023
– Merkava Tanks Find New Homes in Cyprus and Morocco, Amid Speculations, Greek City Times, Jun 21, 2023
– Israel halting export of tanks, rebuilding armored forces amid Gaza war, calcalistech.com
– How Many Armored Vehicles Has Israel Lost Fighting Hamas?, popularmechanics.com