ARBEL NEGEV & ARAD. (IWI)
Transforming light machine guns into precision platforms
IWI – Israel Weapon Industries, a member of the SK Group unveils the next-generation computerized small arms system – ARBEL. This advanced iteration builds upon the groundbreaking 2024 design, introducing critical enhancements for modern combat scenarios: precision-guided suppression fire for light machine guns and rifle-based counter-drone capabilities.
The upgraded ARBEL system maintains its core ability to increase operator lethality, accuracy, and survivability by up to three times compared to unassisted firing. It compensates for declining physical and mental abilities due to exertion, fatigue, and stress, particularly in scenarios where enemies appear briefly, typically for about 3 seconds.
For the IWI NEGEV Light Machine Gun (LMG), the ARBEL-NEGEV, an Enhanced Trigger System configuration adds only 900g via grip replacement, preserving full-auto functionality while introducing an ARBEL-assisted burst mode. This enhancement addresses the critical need for ammunition conservation in prolonged engagements.
The ARBEL-ARAD version, with a simple replacement of the lower receiver, significantly enhances precision and increases hit probability. Maintaining all standard weapon controls, it empowers the operator with a breakthrough capability to effectively engage aerial threats using their standard rifle.
The ARBEL-ARAD allows operators to simply aim, press the trigger, and fire, using the same weapon and optics they are already trained on, ensuring minimal training time.
The ARBEL system supports engagement distances of up to approximately 450 meters, depending on the selected operational mode. No additional equipment is required for effective drone interception; shooters can stabilize their weapon using bipods or any available support. It is compatible with IWI ARAD and any AR-15 platform chambered in 5.56mm.
„The enhanced ARBEL system not only improves the frontline soldier’s ability to neutralize aerial threats using their personal weapon, but also significantly enhances the precision and lethality of our NEGEV Light Machine Gun,“ said Ronen Hamudot, Executive VP of Marketing & Sales at IWI. „The ARBEL-ARAD system delivers groundbreaking capability in counter-drone warfare, enabling real-time engagement with aerial threats with exceptional precision. Undergoing rigorous operational evaluation and field testing, the system is proving its impact across diverse combat scenarios. These advancements redefine infantry combat, reinforcing ARBEL’s core strengths of increased lethality, accuracy, and survivability.“
Designed for seamless integration, ARBEL maintains full firearm functionality even if the battery is depleted. The system offers up to 50 hours of continuous operation with the safety on. It is optic-agnostic and supports multiple mission configurations. It meets the highest military standards, including MIL-STD-810 for harsh environmental conditions, ensuring reliability in demanding combat situations.
At IDEX and Enforce-Tac, IWI will showcase various ARAD models in 5.56mm and 7.62mm calibers, alongside a new lightweight NEGEV variant, the NEGEV-7 ULMG – Ultra Light Machine Gun, in addition to other IWI platforms.
