Barthlow has previous experience in tactical and land mobile radio communications as Harris RF Communications Department of Defence and Federal Agencies Vice President of Sales, working with major US defense agencies as executive business development and strategic capture positions at Northrop Grumman Mission Systems and as a US Marine Corps communications officer.

"Michael brings to his new position a rich background in tactical communications – both through his impressive corporate track record and from his own military experience," Gilat Defense and Security Division Vice President Brigadier General (Res.) Moshe Tamir said in a statement. "This combination of communications technology, knowledge of military applications, and a proven ability to deliver strong sales results will be a tremendous asset to the Company, strengthening our position with US defense system integrators, the US Department of Defense and other agencies and organizations."