Modified weapons, sensors and robotics were among the highlights of ISDEF 2010, the Israel Defense exhibition which focused on defense and security technologies here Oct. 18-20. With the line between military operations and security missions blurring in many areas, ISDEF exhibitors unveiled equipment that could be used effectively by an army or a security force, even first-responders. Included here were dual-use technologies that detect and track concealed enemies or locate disaster victims under rubble.

Elbit Systems on Sept. 2 announced the acquisition of the three defense companies owned by the Israel-based Mikal group for a net payment of $69 million. These companies include artillery and mortar producer Soltam, armored vehicle refurbishing expert Saymar and electro-optic (EO) specialist ITL.

Israel’s defense minister, Ehud Barak, has given the go-ahead for a $2.75-billion purchase of 20 Lockheed Martin F-35I Lightning II fighters, which will be funded by U.S. military aid to Israel. The decision has yet to win approval from the Israeli government.