Israel's Strategic Surveillance: Ofek 19 Satellite Expands Middle East Intelligence

Israel has taken a significant step in bolstering its intelligence infrastructure with the launch of the Ofek 19 spy satellite. Described by defence officials as a strategic cornerstone, the satellite is set to enhance Israel's surveillance capabilities over the Middle East in the coming years.

Revealed by military officials and Defence Minister Israel Katz on Wednesday, the satellite, launched on Tuesday night, promises to augment Israel's ability to capture imagery, similar to the 12,000 images collected over Iran during a conflict earlier this year. Katz emphasized the strategic import of this move, underscoring its implications for Israel's foes.

With this new addition, Israel aims to maintain simultaneous surveillance across various points in the Middle East. The Ofek 19 is part of Israel's long-standing space program and contributes to the nation's robust aerospace and defence sector, which supports a wide range of military technologies and exports globally.

(With inputs from agencies.)