Israeli medical device firm Inovytec has signed a deal to deliver 1,500 advanced portable ventilators to Global Medical Supply, a distributor that works with the state of California.

The Ventway Sparrow breathing machines will be used to aid patients with respiratory illnesses during the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond.

“When looking for a partner that could quickly supply us with the quality ventilators we needed, Inovytec answered the call. Its lightweight and durable ventilators give patients the flexibility needed to be transported between wards or hospitals seamlessly,” said Edward Kim, a partner at Global Medical Supply.

“At the same time, Inovytec’s ventilators are affordable, meaning we could care for more patients and the lack of constant maintenance allows us to keep them in storage if need be while knowing they will be ready when needed.”

The Ventway Sparrow weighs only 1 kilogram (2.2 pounds) and allows for invasive or noninvasive ventilation.

This ventilator is already being used in Covid-19 wards in Italy, Brazil and Israel. It is cleared for use in Canada, Australia and the United States under FDA Emergency Use Authorization.

Udi Kantor, cofounder and CEO of Inovytec, said ventilators have been an invaluable resource in recent months.

“Looking beyond the pandemic, our ventilators will enable paramedics and hospitals to safely and easily transfer patients, and we look forward to serving other medical facilities in California and other states.”

Inovytec also makes the Sali first-aid system for respiratory and cardiac emergencies; and the Lubo airway management and neck stabilization system for emergency medical teams. The company was founded in 2011.