Elbit seals contracts worth $210 million to upgrade IDF’s Merkava tanks

The Elbit defense firm announces that it has been awarded several contracts from the Defense Ministry, worth approximately $210 million (NIS 685 million), for upgrading the IDF’s Merkava tanks.

Under the contracts, which will be carried out over a period of six years, Elbit will “carry out an extensive renewal of the electronic assemblies of the tanks to extend their operational service life, as well as the upgrade and enhancement of multiple onboard systems,” the company says.

“Among these are high‑performance, lightweight, AI‑enhanced electro‑optical sights that provide panoramic day‑ and night‑time observation, along with advanced target detection, acquisition, and tracking capabilities,” Elbit says.

The company says the contracts also include the “supply of spare parts and the provision of comprehensive maintenance and support services.”

During the course of the war, the Armored Corps has been at the front of the IDF’s ground offensive against Hamas in Gaza, against Hezbollah in Lebanon, and on other fronts. As a result, many tanks are in need of servicing to replace damaged and worn-out systems.