Tomer Defense Company Explains Sky-Lit Explosion Near Beit Shemesh, Israel
Following last night’s dramatic explosion that turned the skies red and triggered widespread panic in the Beit Shemesh area, the state-owned defense company Tomer ...
Tomer Defense Company Explains Sky-Lit Explosion Near Beit Shemesh, Israel
Following last night’s dramatic explosion that turned the skies red and triggered widespread panic in the Beit Shemesh area, the state-owned defense company Tomer held an internal review this morning with the Ministry of Defense.
The company, which develops and manufactures missile engines — including those used in Israel’s Arrow ballistic missile defense system — conducted a pre-planned experiment around 23:00 at the end of Shabbat. The test took place amid heightened security tensions and foreign reports about possible renewed action against Iran.
According to Tomer, the experiment was carried out exactly as scheduled, with no malfunction or uncontrolled explosion. Due to urgent operational demands, the company has recently shifted to around-the-clock testing, including night hours, after recruiting dozens of new employees to accelerate production.
The test site is located at least 5 km from the nearest populated areas. Company sources explained that the striking red glow and “apocalyptic” visual effect were caused by specific weather conditions and high humidity at the time. No emergency vehicles were dispatched to the facility, as all relevant authorities, the IDF, Fire and Rescue Services, Police, and Ministry of Defense, had been notified in advance.
However, the public was not given prior warning, which led to anxiety and a wave of conspiracy theories online.
In response, Tomer and the Ministry of Defense announced that a new mechanism will be established to better inform the public ahead of future experiments that could be visible or alarming.
The Ministry of Defense stated: “This was a pre-planned experiment that was executed according to plan. The issue of early public notification will be reviewed together with the company.”
Tomer emphasized that the test was routine, successful, and fully controlled. - Via Kann
