Israel’s Missile Defense Systems at Risk as German Supplier Threatens to Strike over Bonus Dispute

Germany’s Hetz-3 missile defense systems, valued at 4 billion euros, could face disruptions in their supply chain due to a potential strike sanction by the state defense concern Aviation Industry’s working committee. This decision comes from the Ministry of Finance’s demand that concern employees return salary bonuses received in violation of regulations, totaling several hundred million shekels starting from 2018.

The working committee is strongly opposed to this demand and has threatened to halt production of Hetz-3 batteries for Germany. This would mean redirecting resources towards producing similar batteries for the IDF instead. Additionally, all travel related to the deal with Germany would be banned. The concern’s management supports the workers’ committee’s position due to fear that employees may leave for other companies if they are required to return part of their salaries.

Reports from Calcalist indicate that the workers’ committee is standing firm on its stance, with potential consequences that could impact the supply chain of missile defense systems to Germany. Negotiations between the concern, workers’ committee, and Ministry of Finance continue as the situation remains fluid.