The “Ofek 19” satellite successfully launched into space late Tuesday, and initial tests showed it was performing as planned, the Defense Ministry, in collaboration with the Israel Defense Forces and Israel Aerospace Industries, announced.

Axar.az reports, citing Times of Israel, the satellite, which will be used for military reconnaissance, was launched at 10:30 p.m. from Palmachim airbase in central Israel.

In an update Wednesday morning, the Defense Ministry said the spacecraft successfully entered orbit, began transmitting data, and passed a series of initial tests.

Defense Minister Israel Katz said that the successful launch served not only as a technological milestone but also as a warning to Israel’s adversaries.

“The launch of the ‘Ofek-19’ satellite yesterday is an achievement of the highest global standard… it is also a message to all our enemies, wherever they may be — we are watching you at all times and in all circumstances,” he wrote on X.