IAI Appoints Shlomi Sudri to Head Space Division and Approves Elta Merger
Israel Aerospace Industries appointed Shlomi Sudri to head its missile and space division and approved the strategic merger of Elta Systems into IAI to streamline operations and strengthen defense capabilities.
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has announced the appointment of Brig. Gen. (Res.) Shlomi Sudri as Senior Vice President and Head of the Systems, Missiles, and Space Group. The appointment was approved by the company's board of directors, chaired by Boaz Levy, following the recommendation of IAI CEO Guy Bar Lev.
Sudri brings over 30 years of management, business, and technological experience in leading complex defense programs. He began his career at IAI in 2015 as head of the Arrow and Missile Defense Directorate, later serving as director of the Space Plant. Under his leadership, the Space Plant advanced satellite development and expanded its global market presence. Before joining IAI, Sudri held senior positions in the Israel Ministry of Defense's Homa Directorate, contributing significantly to the country's multi-layered air defense systems.
In parallel, IAI's board of directors approved a strategic merger agreement to fully integrate Elta Systems into Israel Aerospace Industries. Following government approval obtained earlier this year, the merger is slated for completion by the end of 2027. Under the agreement, all of Elta's assets, operations, and liabilities will transfer directly to IAI, while Elta will continue operating as a dedicated division within the company, eliminating redundant corporate bureaucracy.
IAI CEO Guy Bar Lev emphasized the strategic significance of the reorganization, stating that the merger marks a crucial milestone in realizing the vision of One Company. Bar Lev noted that combining forces will streamline operational processes, reduce bureaucratic interfaces, and enhance organizational agility while maintaining Elta's unique technological capabilities and exceptional human capital.
