Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings	$ 26,977	$ 32,869	$ 88,773	$ 93,495
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(55,934)	24,975	(64,373)	10,304
Pension and postretirement actuarial items	10,805	3,078	13,665	9,250
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	(50)	60	1,138	(154)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(45,179)	28,113	(49,570)	19,400
Comprehensive income	(18,202)	60,982	39,203	112,895
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	6	150	350	536
Comprehensive income attributable to Vishay stockholders	$ (18,208)	$ 60,832	$ 38,853	$ 112,359