Ofek / Imagery Intelligence
IAI, Israel Aircraft Industries Ltd has developed and produced the satellite and its launcher in cooperation with other high-tech industries including IMI- Israel Military Industries, Rafael, Elbit Systems and Elisra Group in response to an order placed by the Israeli Ministry of Defense.
September 6th 2004 at 13:53 hrs p.m, an unsuccessful attempt was made to launch into orbit a remote sensing satellite. The source of the malfunction in the third stage is being investigated by experts from the MOD and the involved industries. One of its four directional engines malfunctioned and the rocket and payload crashed into the Mediterranean Sea. Ofek-6 was intended to replace Ofek-5. Ofek-5 will function for a few more years, and it was estimated that another replacement satellite can be put in place in time if the necessary funds are available. The failure of the Ofek-6 cost approximately $50 million.
