SpaceX successfully launched a $200 million Israeli communication satellite, which is expected to serve for 15 years and is dubbed the “space smartphone.”

On July 13th, a “Falcon 9” rocket successfully launched from the Space Force Base at Cape Canaveral in Florida. This launch sent a domestically produced Israeli communication satellite into space orbit.
The announcement was made by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Israeli Aerospace Industries Corporation. It is reported that the satellite, named “Freedom 1,” has an investment cost of approximately $200 million. The satellite is described as a “smartphone in space,” expected to provide Israel with 15 years of communication services.
“Freedom 1” will support both Israel’s strategic communication needs and its civilian communication demands simultaneously. The Israeli Aerospace Industries Corporation is responsible for the development of this satellite. The company stated that it is the most technologically advanced communication satellite ever built in Israel.
This launch is considered a significant breakthrough in Israel’s space technology development. It is understood that the “Falcon 9” rocket lifted off from the launch site around 1 AM Eastern Time. After successfully placing the satellite into its planned orbit, the first stage booster was recovered as planned.
It is noteworthy that the United States Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) had previously collaborated with Israeli aerospace companies. In 2016, a mishap occurred during the launch of another Israeli aerospace company when the “Falcon 9” rocket exploded during a pre-launch static fire test, destroying a $200 million communication satellite.
As compensation for the accident, SpaceX launched a replacement satellite for the Israeli company free of charge in 2019. The successful launch of “Freedom 1” marks further development of the aerospace cooperation between the two parties.
“Freedom 1” utilizes Israeli indigenous aerospace technology and is equipped with advanced digital communication equipment. The satellite possesses various communication functions, meeting the growing needs of Israel’s future communication requirements. At the same time, the successful launch showcases Israel’s innovative capabilities in the field of aerospace technology.
The successful completion of this launch mission further solidifies Israel’s position as a leader in aerospace technology in the Middle East. “Freedom 1” will provide Israel with more reliable and independent communication assurance capabilities.