THE EYES OF THE NATION 2025 AI-ENHANCED ELECTRO-OPTICS FOR DEFENSE AND SECURITY

"BEESENSE's state-of-the-art electro-optical defense and alert systems are actively deployed in IDF operations in Gaza, along Israel's northern front and across its borders. While originally developed for defensive purposes, these systems also support offensive and operational missions. Recent technological breakthroughs have propelled the company into accelerated growth, with 2025 sales expected to nearly triple compared with 2022, based on confirmed contracts."

Founded in 1996 by veterans of the IDF's elite Unit 81 under the name Seraphim Optronics, the company's initial focus was electro-optical solutions for the country's armed forces. For years, it remained relatively low profile, until 2021 when it was acquired by the Avnon Group and rebranded as BEESENSE. A year later, Baruch Dilion was brought in as CEO to lead and grow the company.

Engineering growth and innovation
Dilion, 49, a retired IDF lieutenant colonel and electrical engineer, had by then spent two decades in senior roles in the defense industry. "I was excited to make this move," he says. "I'd once headed a company that considered acquiring Seraphim. It didn't happen, but taking BEESENSE's helm now feels like a full-circle moment, a realization of the vision I'd had of its potential."

Under Dilion's leadership, BEESENSE has evolved from an R&D-focused company into a streamlined manufacturing powerhouse with agile development cycles. "Electro-optics is a constantly evolving field," he says. "Staying ahead requires top-tier engineering talent — and that's whom we've recruited for our unique technologies."

The company also operates two international subsidiaries. One is in Lithuania focused on software for advanced intelligence and surveillance, and the other, in Sweden, develops stabilized electro-optical systems. BEESENSE's Israel HQ is in Rosh HaAyin, and employs some 30 engineers and staff.

What sets BEESENSE apart in a competitive local and international market?
BEESENSE's modular, scalable systems integrate AI- and ML-powered analytics, offering, self-powered, rugged solutions with independent communication networks.

"We're a true systems company," says Dilion. "Many firms offer electro-optics components. We deliver full solutions that integrate our proprietary technologies. Clients are given end-to-end defense systems, from advanced sensors and cameras to energy systems, radar, communications and C2 (command-and-control) software."

BEESENSE's systems provide threat detection capabilities ranging from a few hundred meters to over 30 kilometers, enabling early warning and rapid response. "We create layered security perimeters based on range," explains BEESENSE's VP for Business Development & Sales, Nir Bar Natan. "Our wide-area surveillance (WAS) systems enable continu0us monitoring, threat detection and tracking, day or night, in any weather, with AI-enhanced speed and accuracy."
BEESENSE solutions feature 24/7 all-weather monitoring, AI-powered threat analysis that outpaces human observation, long-range multispectral night imaging and integration with drones and autonomous systems for immediate response. "Our surveillance systems deliver unparalleled situational awareness, empowering border forces, security units, and military operations alike," says Bar Natan.

Could BEESENSE systems have changed the course of events on October 7?
"IDF observation systems were present but they were exposed and quickly destroyed," says Dilion. "Our solutions are concealed and cover broader areas — up to 30 km."
Following the October 7 invasion, BEESENSE supported the IDF with around-the-clock equipment and field maintenance, despite many of the company's senior staff being called to reserve duty. Its technologies are now being used to protect national borders, critical infrastructure, military bases, airports, railways and more. "We know that our systems are saving lives in the current conflict," says Dilion.

Tactical and portable defense solutions
BEESENSE's primary customer is Israel's Ministry of Defense. It also collaborates with major defense integrators, Elbit, IAI (Elta), Motorola and the MER Group among them. International expansion is now a top priority, including direct sales to foreign defense ministries and local integrators.

In addition to static systems for fixed installations, BEESENSE offers tactical field solutions for on-the-ground use. "Our BEE product family includes advanced portable electro-optical observation cameras for short- and long-range use, including night vision," says Dilion. "The static versions protect borders, coastlines and infrastructure, whereas the tactical models are lightweight and backpack-portable, transmitting data directly to a soldier's handheld tablet, which means that the soldier can observe the battlefield without being directly exposed."

Another tactical solution: the FIREFLY 500
Among BEESENSE's tactical offerings is the FIREFLY 500, part of the Fireflies family. It integrates radar, multispectral cameras and layered sensors to secure areas from small outposts to critical infrastructure.
"FIREFLY 500 is a deployable field-holding system," says Dilion. "It establishes a perimeter and provides continuous, 90-degree surveillance over 500 meters. It identifies threats based on user-defined criteria and delivers real-time alerts, allowing for rapid action, even automated drone response."

A culture of agility and purpose
BEESENSE is currently undergoing a strategic shift under the publicly traded company Technoplast Ventures, alongside its sister company Skylock, whose specialty is airspace defense against drones. While the two remain operationally independent, they are aligning with public company standards, an important step after financial challenges at their parent group Avnon.

"We've continued growing despite tough times," says Dilion. "The company is nearly 30 years old, but operates with the energy of a startup. We're not trying to be a corporate defense giant. Our strength is in our flexibility, customization and delivering tailored solutions with the speed and intimacy of a family-run firm."

Looking ahead: defense and beyond
"Today, our focus is military," he continues, "but our technologies have enormous potential in homeland security as well, both in Israel and worldwide. Future applications will include airport and railway security, protection of gas and oil pipelines, monitoring of high-risk public spaces and critical defense infrastructure.
In collaboration with BEESENSE Sensors Systems Ltd.

The company website >>

In collaboration with BEESENSE Sensors Systems Ltd.