Gellért Jászai, Chairman of the 4iG Group, led a Hungarian delegation—including Minister for National Economy Márton Nagy—on a visit to Israel last week to strengthen bilateral relations. Discussions centered on economic cooperation, expanding trade, and fostering partnerships in sectors including pharmaceuticals, dual-use technologies, and food production.
Meetings were held with Israeli Tourism Minister Haim Katz, exploring opportunities in tourism, healthcare, and real estate. Further talks with Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi focused on potential collaboration in telecommunications, space communications, and coordination within international organizations.
A key meeting with Defence Minister Israel Katz addressed Hungarian–Israeli defence industrial cooperation, specifically regarding partnerships between 4iG Space and Defence Technologies Plc (4iG SDT) and Israeli defence companies.
Israeli Drone Hub in Hungary
Following meetings at the Ministry of Defence, the delegation visited the manufacturing facilities of Aeronautics Group. This visit followed a previously signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 4iG SDT and aimed to assess the company’s capabilities for a potential European hub based in Hungary.
According to a post on X by 4iG’s chairman, the hub is planned to supply loitering munitions and reconnaissance drones to European markets. The 4iG Group entered into a strategic partnership with Aeronautics in December, examining the possibilities of producing modern unmanned aerial systems, including ‘kamikaze’ drones, in Hungary.
The establishment of a weapons hub in Hungary is described as an “industrial development milestone and a strategic advance” that could position 4iG and Hungary in a key international role. The project could encompass manufacturing, logistics, and technological functions.
Demand for Israeli defence technology has increased in Europe, rising from roughly 25–30 per cent of Israeli defence exports in 2021–2022 to over 50 per cent by 2024. Leading manufacturers include Israel Aerospace Industries and Elbit Systems.
The chairman of 4iG stated that Israel is a strategic partner of Hungary, reaffirming a shared commitment to innovation, security, and economic growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary focus of the Hungarian delegation’s visit to Israel?
The primary focus was to strengthen Hungarian–Israeli relations, with discussions centered on economic cooperation, expanding trade opportunities, and fostering partnerships in key industries.
What type of drones are being considered for production in Hungary?
The partnership between 4iG and Aeronautics includes examining the production of loitering munitions, also known as ‘kamikaze’ drones, and reconnaissance drones.
What is the potential significance of establishing a weapons hub in Hungary?
The creation of a weapons hub in Hungary is described as an “industrial development milestone and a strategic advance” that could position 4iG and Hungary in a key international role.
As Hungary and Israel explore deeper collaboration in defence and technology, what impact might this have on the broader European security landscape?
