Not long ago, Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), a member of the SK Group, unveiled the ARBEL, a groundbreaking computerised small arms system that promises to redefine modern warfare. (click on image to watch video)

Touted as the world’s first computerised weapon system for small arms, the ARBEL integrates a computer, an advanced electronic trigger mechanism with embedded sensors, a revolutionary “Arbel” firing mode, and a removable rechargeable battery. 

According to the manufacturer, the system represents nearly a decade of development aimed at enhancing accuracy, lethality, and operational efficiency for small arms operators in combat.

Designed primarily to assist operators in attrition-led engagements, the ARBEL system mitigates common shooting errors such as flinching, tremors, and reduced concentration caused by fatigue or stress. 

While not a traditional fire-control system akin to SmartShooter’s SMASH, the ARBEL functions as an integrated support mechanism, significantly increasing hit probability and reducing engagement time. IWI claims it enhances the lethality, accuracy, and survivability of soldiers by up to threefold, a capability demonstrated in its inaugural use by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) during the conflict in Gaza.

The ARBEL system has been adapted for use across IWI’s range of weapons, including the Negev light machine gun (LMG) and assault rifles such as the Arad, Tavor, X95 Mini Tavor, and Carmel. In fact, the TAVOR X95 is the basic rifle of the National Guard Special Forces (Commandos), as outlined in the following article.

Also read: TAVOR X95 | The basic Rifle of the National Guard’s Commandos

With its seamless integration capabilities, it requires minimal modifications: the Negev LMG only needs its standard grip replaced with the ARBEL grip, while AR-15 upgrades involve swapping the lower receiver. Weighing approximately 900 grams for machine guns and 400 grams for assault rifles, the system’s lightweight design ensures that operators experience no significant changes in handling or balance.

At the heart of the ARBEL system is a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) algorithm that analyses the weapon’s movement and trigger status in real time.

The system “learns” the operator’s shooting patterns, not through artificial intelligence, but via advanced motion sensors. 

In the new “Arbel” firing mode, operators pull and hold the trigger after acquiring a target. The system automatically fires a precise shot each time the target is reacquired, enabling consistent accuracy with minimal effort.

Even under stress or fatigue, soldiers can engage fleeting targets effectively, maximising their limited windows of opportunity available to them on the battlefield.

The ARBEL system also boasts an integrated Li-ion battery capable of powering the weapon for up to 50 hours in “Arbel” mode. The battery, field-replaceable and rechargeable, is complemented by a status display for charge monitoring. In machine gun configurations, the battery is housed in the grip, while for assault rifles, it is integrated into the stock. The system also features a self-test capability for diagnostics and training.

In trials, the ARBEL has demonstrated exceptional results. Comparative shooting range tests revealed a dramatic improvement in hit rates, with nine out of ten rounds striking their target in “Arbel” mode versus just two in traditional full-auto mode. 

Beyond improved accuracy, the system reduces ammunition consumption and shortens engagement times, placing less strain on logistics while bolstering combat efficiency. These advantages extend to specialised applications, such as countering small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), where the ARBEL has proven its precision, downing UAVs with multiple hits in rapid succession.

The ARBEL’s adaptability is another of its standout features in accordance with the manufacturing company. Its optic-agnostic design allows it to function with or without additional optical components, using either iron sights or existing optics. Furthermore, IWI has ensured that if the system is damaged or fails, the weapon remains fully operational, maintaining its reliability in critical moments.

Named after Israel’s Mount Arbel, the system’s development stemmed from a request by IDF special forces for greater precision and lighter systems, marking a collaborative effort between IWI and its end users. Today, the ARBEL system is not only in use by the IDF but is also being tested by Western European armed forces and U.S. special forces, with further evaluations scheduled during the U.S. Special Operations Command’s SOF Week in Tampa, Florida, in May 2024.

Also read: IWI | Introduces Micro Folding Battle Sights to enhance Co-Witness capabilities

Watch below the presentation of IWI’s small-arm weaponry on the DEFENCE ReDEFiNED camera within the framework of the DEFEA exhibition.