Ari Sacher Israeli Missile Defense Expert Episode 288
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Ari Sacher has spent more than three decades working at Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Israel’s premier developer of missile technology, where he played key roles in the creation of the Iron Dome and David’s Sling missile defense systems. Originally from Wilmington, Delaware, Ari’s journey took him from upstate New York and Toronto to Israel in 1982—and he never looked back. An electrical engineer educated at Israel’s Technion (often called “Israel’s MIT”), Ari has been at the forefront of developing systems that protect millions of lives, all while holding fast to his faith and deep love for family.
In this episode of The Wow Factor, Brad sits down with Ari for a fascinating conversation about life in Israel, the realities of living under constant threat, and the powerful blend of faith, resilience, and technological ingenuity that keeps the country moving forward. Ari shares the story of his work on missile defense systems, the challenges of innovation in the face of failure, and how his faith has been a guiding force through wars, uncertainty, and the ever-present dangers his nation faces. From four generations of New York Giants fandom to raising children who now serve in the military, Ari’s story is one of commitment—to his people, his work, and his God.
“If you’re unwilling to fail, then you will find yourself locked in a room and you will go wherever you are taken. If we want to lead, we have to be unafraid of failing.” – Ari Sacher
“When I see Iron Dome working, then I see godliness. Everything I see is godliness.” – Ari Sacher
“We are a country that lives with traumatic stress disorder—that’s who we are, where we live, and our destiny.” – Ari Sacher
This Week on The Wow Factor:
Ari’s early years in the U.S., his move to Israel for a “gap year,” and how he never returned home
Studying electrical engineering at Technion and turning down prestigious U.S. and Canadian universities
Joining Rafael Advanced Defense Systems in 1991 and contributing to two of Israel’s most critical missile defense systems—Iron Dome and David’s Sling
The unique “intercept chain” process behind missile defense and why not every incoming rocket is destroyed
How failure is embraced in Israeli innovation and why it’s essential for breakthroughs
The role of faith during high-threat moments—turning to Psalms in the middle of missile attacks
Life in Israel during wartime, including cramming 15 family members and a dog into a 100-square-foot bomb shelter
The spiritual parallels between God’s protection and a missile defense “dome”
Ari Sacher’s Word of Wisdom:
Live with an unwavering belief in God, and let that belief color how you see the world. When everything you see reinforces your faith, you gain comfort, strength, and a better way to lead your family through uncertainty.
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