A., 46, heads the Air-to-Surface Unit at Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, where she oversees the development of airborne weapon systems. Last week, she made her third visit to the President’s Residence to receive the Israel Defense Prize.
The award committee described the project under her direction as “a blend of cutting-edge technology, high-quality intelligence, strategic deception and bold operational innovation that redefines reality.”
“It says a lot without actually saying anything,” she comments. “That’s how we are—always talking without really talking.”
So, what can you say about the project?
“It began six years ago when someone from the Ministry of Defense approached us with an idea. It was so unconventional that we first needed to see if it had any physical feasibility or if it was pure science fiction—something you’d only see in James Bond movies. We entered a ‘feasibility study’ phase and then started developing the project.”
What does the system do?
“It changes how we handle threats in our environment. This system didn’t exist before, anywhere in the world. It required a complex mix of advanced technology, a lot of creativity, and bold thinking.”
Did you come from a physics background?
“No. I have a bachelor’s in information systems and a master’s in systems engineering from the Technion. I joined Rafael 23 years ago, and I’ve been here ever since.”
Were you one of the few women in such a male-dominated organization?
“In the first part of my career, I held roles traditionally considered ‘softer,’ like managing information systems, where you see more women. Becoming a project manager was a turning point; I was one of the only women there. My managers supported me and gave me a chance to prove myself.”
Did being a woman in this environment present any challenges?
“Apart from wanting to do my best in every role, be a mother and wife, and take care of my family—I didn’t feel much difference. There were a few rare moments where I’d sense from someone’s words or body language, ‘What does she know?’ But even then, after an hour of conversation, I felt that faded.”
I assume you were already a mother by then.
“Yes, during my early years in this role, my kids were young. I’d show up at the office, bleary-eyed, at 5:30 a.m. and think, ‘This is so hard.’ Then I’d tell myself, ‘Focus—you’re doing this for your future, for what you’ve always dreamed of, and to pave the way for others.’”
Do you think you succeeded?
“The trend has changed, and I hope I contributed a bit. Of course, there’s still room for improvement. Up until my last role, I volunteered in programs that promote tech-focused studies for high school girls, hoping that would encourage them to pursue academic paths in science and engineering. We brought them to Rafael to meet women in key positions.”
You won your first Israel Defense Prize in 2015.
“Yes, each achievement has been different, and each ceremony had a unique feel. The 2015 event was the last time the prize was awarded to individuals rather than organizations, which I think makes more sense. Thankfully, family members could attend that year, so I was able to bring my parents, children, and husband. My second prize was in 2020, during one of the pandemic lockdowns, and the ceremony was much more limited.”
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
“I built an amazing team—professional, determined, creative, and bold. This team developed next-generation systems that will continue saving lives. These projects showed me that anything is possible, and with a strong team, we can succeed in any mission.”
Testing of RAFAEL’s Air Defense System
(Illustration: RAFAEL)
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