JERUSALEM, June 4 (Reuters) - Israel's defence exports

rose 13% in 2024 to a record of nearly $15 billion, led by

missiles, rockets and air-defence systems with over half the

deliveries going to European militaries, the government said on

Wednesday.

Military exports, the Defence Ministry said in a statement,

have more than doubled over the past five years, reaching nearly

$15 billion in value in 2024.

The ministry said that since the outbreak of the Gaza war on

Oct. 7, 2023, Israel's defence industries have operated in

emergency mode with round-the-clock arms production while also

maintaining manufacturing for foreign clients.

"The new record in Israeli defence exports, achieved during

a year of war, reflects more than anything else the growing

global appreciation for Israeli technology's proven

capabilities," said Defence Ministry Director-General Amir

Baram.

"Israeli systems have resonated throughout the Middle East

this past year. More nations want to protect their citizens

using Israeli defence equipment."

The ministry said there was significant growth in contracts

from Europe last year, where exports accounted for 54% of the

total, up from 36% in 2023. Asia-Pacific was next at 23% with

the United States at 9%.

Missile, rocket and air defence systems comprised 48% of

defence exports, followed by vehicles and armoured personnel

carriers at 9%, and satellites and space systems, radar and

electronic warfare, manned aircraft and avionics at 8% each.

Some 57% of contracts amounted to more than $100 million.