Nir Rotem

Age: 29 | Organization: MAFAT – Space Directorate | Role: System Engineer for Command and Control

Nir’s military service taught him that the sky is only the first step. He served at the Space Center of Unit 9900, starting as a satellite operator and advancing to command roles. In these positions, he was involved in launching and operating advanced satellites that contribute to Israel’s status as a space power. After his military service, Nir chose to continue his journey in the field of space and joined the Space Directorate at MAFAT as a key civilian employee. By doing so, he set an important precedent as the first satellite operator to transition from the operational unit to the directorate responsible for developing Israel’s future space systems, paving the way for many others to follow.


Through his various roles, Nir has gained valuable tools and extensive experience, which he now applies to engineering and development challenges in advanced command and control systems for Ministry of Defense satellites. Alongside his intensive work and active reserve duty, Nir is in the final stages of completing his degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the Hebrew University.


Nir plays a central role in the team behind systems connecting the sky to the ground, with a focus on an innovative ground station designed to operate dozens, even hundreds, of advanced satellites. He defines, specifies, and ensures the project requirements are met—from the concept phase through every stage of development.

Despite his young age, Nir brings a decade of experience and stands out as a prominent representative of a talented new generation of engineers who are a force multiplier in Israel’s defense space program. With his skills, values, and contributions, Nir represents both the present and the future of technological leadership in Israel’s defense system, particularly in the field of space.