Israel on Wednesday launched a new version of its Horizon reconnaissance satellite, saying it would boost its round-the-clock surveillance of the region as it prepares for a possible confrontation with Iran.
Horizon-13, produced by Israel's state-owned Aerospace Industries, is the latest in a series of domestically made satellites, some of which were launched into space in 1988.
The satellite was launched on the Shavit missile over the Mediterranean Sea in a westward launch trajectory usually used by Israel, fearing sensitive technology could fall into the hands of hostile Middle Eastern states if the missile failed.
CEO Boaz Levy said: "The Horizon-13 is the most advanced of its kind with unique radar surveillance capabilities, and will enable the collection of information whatever the weather and visibility conditions."