General Dynamics supports Israel through extensive weapons supplies that form part of the unprecedented U.S. military aid flowing into the region. Since October 2023, Israel has received more than 10,000 tons of weapons from the United States in 244 cargo planes and 20 ships, with General Dynamics emerging as a key supplier in this massive transfer.
The Israeli weapons industry benefits significantly from these relationships, with General Dynamics providing an array of deadly weaponry to Israel’s arsenal. In fact, General Dynamics weapons include the 2000-lb MK-84 bombs with a 30-meter kill radius that produce indiscriminate killing when used, as well as MK-82 500-lb bombs and BLU-113 5,000-lb “bunker buster bombs”. Furthermore, the company supplies GD 883 engines used in Israel’s 65-ton Merkava 4 battle tanks, strengthening the General Dynamics Israel partnership.
Despite massive public protests, the Biden administration has worked to provide Israel with over $14 billion to purchase more weapons, with the U.S. supplying more than 90 percent of Israel’s arms imports. This article examines General Dynamics’ extensive involvement in supporting Israel’s military operations, including their combat vehicles, weapons systems, defense technology, and the ethical and legal implications of these ongoing arms deals.
General Dynamics and Its Ties to Israel
The relationship between General Dynamics and Israel represents one of the most substantial defense partnerships in modern military history. As a leading global weapons manufacturer, General Dynamics has become an integral supplier to Israel’s armed forces through decades of collaboration.
A long-standing military partnership
General Dynamics has cemented its position as a critical weapons provider to the Israeli military. The company’s involvement with Israel’s defense infrastructure extends across multiple platforms and systems. Notably, General Dynamics previously manufactured the chassis and key components for Israel’s fleet of 386 Namer (Leopard) armored personnel carriers, considered “the most protected armored combat vehicle[s] in the world”. This relationship deepened in 2017 when the Israeli military signed a USD 310.00 million contract with General Dynamics to produce components for these armored vehicles.
Beyond ground vehicles, General Dynamics provides crucial weapon systems and maintenance services for Israel’s air force. The company manufactures gun systems for F-15, F-16, and F-35 fighter jets operated by Israel. These aircraft have been central to Israeli military operations, with the F-16 serving as “the Israeli Air Force’s most important fighter jet” since the 1970s.
The scale of weapons transfers has intensified during recent conflicts. In February 2025, the U.S. State Department approved the potential sale of nearly USD 3.00 billion worth of arms to Israel, including 35,529 general-purpose bomb bodies for 2,000-pound bombs and 4,000 bunker-busting 2,000-pound bombs manufactured by General Dynamics. Additionally, the U.S. government approved another package valued at USD 675.00 million consisting of five thousand 1,000-pound bombs.
However, this partnership has not been without controversy. The provision of weapons to Israel during the Gaza conflict has sparked protests at General Dynamics facilities across the United States, including locations in Pittsfield, Massachusetts; Lincoln, Nebraska; Saco, Maine; New London, Connecticut; and Garland, Texas.
How U.S. foreign aid supports arms deals
The extensive military relationship between General Dynamics and Israel is underpinned by the substantial foreign aid framework established between the United States and Israel. Currently, Israel holds the distinction of being the largest cumulative recipient of U.S. foreign assistance since World War II, having received USD 174.00 billion in bilateral assistance and missile defense funding to date.
This aid structure was formalized in 2016 when the U.S. and Israeli governments signed their third 10-year Memorandum of Understanding on military aid, covering fiscal years 2019 to 2028. Under this agreement, the United States pledged to provide USD 38.00 billion in military aid, consisting of USD 33.00 billion in Foreign Military Financing grants plus USD 5.00 billion in missile defense appropriations.
The system benefits American defense contractors like General Dynamics directly. Israel can purchase directly from U.S. arms manufacturers using this aid money, with companies viewing Israel as a major customer. Moreover, following the October 2023 conflict, emergency supplemental funding has further increased this aid. Congress passed legislation providing an additional USD 3.50 billion in Foreign Military Financing for Israel.
Through this arrangement, U.S. government officials often emphasize that directing military aid to American manufacturers strengthens domestic job creation while bolstering defense industry infrastructure.
Combat Vehicles Supplied by General Dynamics
Combat vehicles form a cornerstone of General Dynamics’ support for Israel’s military operations. The company provides crucial components for several armored platforms that have been deployed in various combat scenarios.
Namer Armored Personnel Carrier
The Namer (Hebrew for “leopard”) represents one of Israel’s most significant armored developments. General Dynamics Land Systems produces this heavily armored vehicle, considered “the most heavily armored carrier in the world“. The company previously manufactured the chassis and key components for Israel’s fleet of 386 Namer APCs. In 2017, the Israeli military signed a USD 310 million contract with General Dynamics to produce additional components.
The Namer has proven its capabilities in military operations, including Operation Protective Edge. To accelerate production, General Dynamics Land Systems was selected in 2010 over other competitors for US-based production of Namer chassis and main components. The initial contract included 111 kits with options for another 276 vehicles.
Flyer 72 Tactical Vehicle
The Flyer 72 tactical vehicle, developed by General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems in partnership with Flyer Defense, adds mobility to Israel’s arsenal. This heavy-duty ground mobility vehicle offers a payload capacity of 5,700 pounds and can accommodate up to nine crew members.
In October 2023, Flyer Defense provided Israel with units of its Flyer 72 patrol vehicle. Subsequently, in January, Israel reportedly ordered 60 additional Flyer 72 tactical vehicles, funded by U.S. taxpayers. The vehicle’s modular design allows rapid reconfiguration for missions ranging from light strike assault to reconnaissance.
Eitan Armored Fighting Vehicle
The Eitan (Hebrew for “steadfast”) is an 8-wheeled armored fighting vehicle developed to replace Israel’s aging M113 APCs. Weighing less than 35 tons and fitted with the Iron Fist Light Decoupled active protection system, the Eitan can reach speeds of 90 km/h.
Oshkosh received a USD 100 million contract from Israel’s Ministry of Defense to produce hulls for the Eitan APCs in January 2023. The Nahal Brigade became the first Israeli infantry unit to receive the Eitan in May 2023, and the vehicle was first used in combat during the Battle of Zikim on October 7, 2023.
Use of Oshkosh and Humvees in Gaza
Beyond direct General Dynamics products, Israel deploys other U.S.-manufactured vehicles in Gaza. Oshkosh manufactures hulls for the Namer 1500 and Eitan APCs. In November 2023, the Israeli military deployed the Namer 1500 APC in its first combat use in northern Gaza.
Correspondingly, AM General’s Humvees have been utilized in Gaza operations. On November 5, the Israeli military reportedly used Humvees, accompanied by tanks and armored vehicles, to lead a “supply convoy” into Gaza. Additional Humvees were delivered to Israel on December 6.
Weapons and Ammunition Linked to General Dynamics
Beyond armored vehicles, General Dynamics produces a lethal arsenal of weapons and ammunition that have dramatically shaped Israel’s offensive capabilities. These weapons systems form the backbone of Israel’s air and artillery operations in recent conflicts.
155mm artillery shells and MK-80 bomb series
General Dynamics stands as the sole U.S. manufacturer of 155mm caliber artillery shells and metal bodies for the MK-80 bomb series. Since October 2023, the U.S. has supplied Israel with more than 57,000 155mm artillery shells. These shells, manufactured at plants in Mesquite, Texas, Camden, Arkansas, and Middletown, Iowa, constitute a core component of Israel’s ground offensive capabilities.
Even more concerning is General Dynamics’ exclusive production of the MK-80 bomb series, which includes the 500-lb MK-82/BLU-111, 1,000-lb MK-83/BLU-110, and 2,000-lb MK-84/BLU-109 variants. The U.S. has transferred more than 14,000 MK-84 2,000-pound bombs to Israel between October 2023 and June 2024. In February 2025, the U.S. State Department approved additional sales, including 35,529 general-purpose bomb bodies for 2,000-pound bombs and 4,000 bunker-busting 2,000-pound bombs from General Dynamics.
Use of MK-84 bombs in densely populated areas
The 2,000-pound MK-84 bomb has proven particularly devastating when deployed in Gaza. This weapon cannot be used in populated areas without causing massive civilian casualties, with its explosion creating “instant death” within 100 feet and lethal fragments extending up to 1,200 feet.
By early November 2023, Israel had dropped over 500 such bombs on Northern Gaza, including strikes on the Jabalia refugee camp that killed hundreds of Palestinian civilians. A peer-reviewed study found that Israel dropped MK-84s within blast range of more than 80% of hospitals in Gaza during just the first 40 days of conflict.
The UN Commission of Inquiry explicitly warned that using MK-84 bombs in highly populated areas would likely “constitute a violation of the prohibition of indiscriminate attacks”. Nonetheless, Israel received a new shipment of these weapons in February 2025 after the Trump administration lifted restrictions previously imposed by the Biden administration.
Partnerships with Boeing and Lockheed Martin
General Dynamics’ weapons reach extends through partnerships with other defense giants. The company provides critical components for Israel’s air force, manufacturing 20mm guns for F-15E fighter jets, 25mm guns for F-15, F-16, and F-35 aircraft, and 30mm “gun pods” for various fighter platforms.
For the purpose of enhancing precision, approximately 60% of Israeli airstrikes utilized guidance systems, including the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) kits produced by Boeing that can be attached to General Dynamics’ MK-80 series bombs. General Dynamics initially designed the F-16 fighter jet and supplied it to Israel until 1993, at which point Lockheed Martin took over production.
Defense Technology and Surveillance Systems
While combat equipment dominates headlines, General Dynamics’ surveillance and biometric technologies play an equally crucial role in supporting military operations. Beyond weapons and vehicles, the company provides sophisticated tracking systems used for border control and population monitoring.
Biometric systems and IDENT database
General Dynamics serves as the primary contractor for the Automated Biometric Identity System (IDENT), the central database for storing and processing biometric data on over 230 million individuals. After acquiring CSRA in 2018, General Dynamics took control of this essential system used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for tracking immigrants. In 2020, DHS awarded General Dynamics another contract worth USD 64.30 million to maintain IDENT through October 2025.
Remote Video Surveillance System (RVSS)
The company’s surveillance capabilities extend to border monitoring through its Remote Video Surveillance System (RVSS). As prime contractor for CBP’s RVSS program, General Dynamics has deployed more than 170 fixed and relocatable tower sites. These towers use day and night cameras that feed video to CBP facilities, enabling “Border Patrol to survey large areas… as they detect, identify, and classify incursions at the border”. By 2024, CBP had installed 479 RVSS towers, primarily along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Support for U.S. and Israeli border militarization
The surveillance technologies developed for U.S. borders have parallels with those used in Israel. Companies like Elbit Systems have secured U.S. border contracts worth USD 187.00 million, bringing Israeli border control expertise to America. Concurrently, Israeli forces have adopted similar biometric surveillance systems. Corsight developed AI-based facial recognition technology for the Israeli military to conduct mass surveillance of Palestinians in Gaza, with soldiers using cameras equipped with this technology at checkpoints where Palestinians fled fighting.
Legal, Ethical, and Financial Implications
Amid ongoing conflict, the legal and ethical questions surrounding General Dynamics’ support for Israel have intensified alongside growing financial returns for the company.
Allegations of war crimes and civilian harm
General Dynamics’ weapons have been linked to attacks that may constitute war crimes. The company’s MK-84 bombs were used in densely populated areas of Gaza, creating “instant death” within 100 feet and lethal fragments extending up to 1,200 feet. The International Court of Justice has recognized genocide as a “plausible risk” in Gaza, where General Dynamics’ weapons have been deployed. According to UN experts, these attacks have resulted in more than 37,000 deaths, with an estimated 70% being women and children.
Stockholder profits and lobbying influence
Throughout the conflict, defense industry stocks have seen significant increases. General Dynamics spent $15.60 million on influencing U.S. policy in 2024 alone ($12.20 million on lobbying and $3.40 million on campaign contributions). The company employs 50 lobbyists who previously held government positions. In total, the defense sector spent $149 million on lobbying and $43 million on campaign contributions in 2024.
Calls for divestment and embargoes
In response to these concerns, several institutions have taken action:
- Norway’s sovereign fund, the world’s largest, divested from General Dynamics in September 2024
- Universities, including San Francisco State, Portland State, and the University of San Francisco, have divested themselves
- The UN Human Rights Council adopted a resolution calling for a military embargo against Israel
Legal challenges have been filed in multiple countries demanding the implementation of arms embargoes as a legal obligation under the Genocide Convention.
Companies like General Dynamics are complicit in war crimes and humanitarian crises. Learn more about other weapon manufacturers fueling global conflict and why boycotting their shares is a stand for justice and ethical living.
Final Thoughts
The scale of U.S. military spending on Israel’s military operations reveals staggering financial commitments. In just one year through September 2023, the U.S. spent at least $22.76 billion on military aid to Israel and related regional operations. This massive investment includes weapons deliveries consisting of 57,000 artillery shells, 36,000 rounds of cannon ammunition, 20,000 M4A1 rifles, and 8,700 Mk 82 bombs.
Ultimately, this funding translates directly into corporate profits. Defense industry executives have spoken candidly about how the conflict benefits their bottom line. One General Dynamics financial officer noted that “the Israel situation” would put “upward pressure” on artillery demand, mentioning plans to accelerate production from 20,000 to potentially 100,000 rounds monthly.
Conversely, public attitudes toward military aid have begun shifting. Though congressional majorities consistently support continued assistance, some lawmakers have become more openly critical and focused on Palestinian human rights issues. This trend accelerated after October 2023, with debates emerging over conditioning aid amid reports of civilian casualties.
Nevertheless, General Dynamics has continued securing major contracts, including $500 million for Israeli missile defense in spring 2025. Quaker organizations and human rights groups have called for a complete arms embargo, arguing that “the scale of destruction and war crimes in Gaza would not be possible without this continued flow of weapons”.
FAQs
1. How does General Dynamics support Israel?
General Dynamics supports Israel by supplying a wide range of military equipment, including MK-80 series bombs, 155mm artillery shells, and armored combat vehicles like the Namer and Eitan. The company also provides critical components for Israel’s fighter jets and surveillance systems.
2. What specific weapons and vehicles has General Dynamics provided to Israel?
General Dynamics has supplied MK-82, MK-83, and MK-84 bombs, GD 883 engines for Merkava 4 tanks, Namer and Eitan armored vehicles, and Flyer 72 tactical vehicles. It also manufactures components for Israeli F-15, F-16, and F-35 fighter jets.
3. How is General Dynamics’ support connected to U.S. military aid?
The U.S. provides Israel with billions in annual military aid, most of which is spent on American-made weapons. General Dynamics benefits directly from this aid by supplying Israel with munitions, vehicles, and defense technology under U.S.-funded arms deals.
4. What is the humanitarian impact of General Dynamics’ weapons in Gaza?
MK-84 2,000-pound bombs and other munitions supplied by General Dynamics have been used in densely populated areas, causing massive civilian casualties, widespread destruction of infrastructure, and displacement of Palestinians. UN investigations warn these may constitute indiscriminate attacks under international law.
5. Has there been public or political backlash against General Dynamics’ support for Israel?
Yes. Protests have occurred at General Dynamics facilities across the U.S., universities have divested from the company, and the UN Human Rights Council has called for a military embargo. Investors, including Norway’s sovereign wealth fund, have also scrutinized the company for ethical concerns.
6. What surveillance and defense technologies does General Dynamics provide Israel?
Beyond weapons, General Dynamics supplies biometric systems (IDENT database) and video surveillance systems (RVSS), which support border control and monitoring operations. Similar technologies have also been adapted for use in Israel.
7. Could General Dynamics face legal or ethical accountability?
General Dynamics’ weapons have been linked to attacks that may constitute war crimes. Legal challenges and calls for divestment argue that continued arms sales to Israel could violate international humanitarian law and the Genocide Convention.
8. Why is General Dynamics’ support for Israel significant?
General Dynamics supports Israel in a way that directly influences military operations, corporate profits, and global ethical debates over arms sales. The company’s role exemplifies the intersection of U.S. foreign policy, corporate defense interests, and humanitarian accountability.