Boaz Levy, chairman of Israel Aerospace Industries-IAI, has spent more than three decades shaping Israel’s most critical defense technologies. As one of the country’s leading aerospace engineers, Levy’s work has been central to the development of the Arrow missile-defense system and the broader suite of capabilities that today protect Israel from long-range threats.
His career at Israel Aerospace Industries-IAI reflects a sustained commitment to advancing Israel’s security through engineering excellence, strategic planning, and international cooperation.
Levy began his professional journey in the Israel Air Force, specializing in guided weapons systems. In 1989, he joined IAI and entered the Arrow program at a formative stage. His technical expertise and leadership quickly distinguished him, and by 1999 he was appointed chief engineer of the Arrow project. Between 2003 and 2006, he directed the program, overseeing the evolution of Arrow 2 and laying the groundwork for Arrow 3, Israel’s exo-atmospheric interceptor developed jointly with the United States.
The systems Levy helped build have become pillars of Israel’s defense doctrine.
The Arrow 3 first demonstrated its operational effectiveness during Iranian missile attacks in April 2024, intercepting the majority of incoming ballistic missiles aimed at Israeli cities and strategic sites. The system was used again during Operation Rising Lion and Operation Roaring Lion, intercepting countless Iranian ballistic missiles and reinforcing its role as one of Israel’s most important defensive assets.
From 2013 to 2020, Levy served as executive vice president and general manager of IAI’s Systems, Missiles & Space Group. He oversaw thousands of engineers and technicians and managed some of Israel’s most advanced defense programs.
Levy's division became the IAI's most profitable
Under his leadership, the division became IAI’s most profitable, with annual sales exceeding $1 billion and an order backlog of more than $7b. Levy also played a key role in major defense-export agreements, including the Barak 8 air-defense system and the Arrow 3 sale to Germany valued at $3.6b. – the largest defense deal in Israel’s history.
In November 2020, Levy was selected as IAI’s president and CEO, a position he held until late 2024. During his tenure, IAI reported record profitability and expanded its global partnerships. In early 2025, Eyal Shapira was appointed as the new CEO, and Levy transitioned out of the role and into his current position as chairman. He also serves in senior strategic capacities within Israel’s defense-technology ecosystem, contributing to long-term planning and international cooperation.
Levy’s missile defense achievements have earned him multiple honors, including the Israel Defense Prize.
Levy remains one of the most important figures in Israel’s defense establishment. His work continues to influence the country’s missile defense architecture, aerospace innovation, and international partnerships, ensuring that Israel maintains its technological edge in an increasingly complex environment.