The Ministry of Defense today conducted a successful test of the latest version of the Arrow anti-ballistic missile interceptor. The test was carried out at the Air Force base at Palmachim. The objective was to test the Arrow II's improved capabilities designed to counter missile threats from Iran and Syria.
Minister of Defense Ehud Barak viewed the test from a helicopter that was returning him from a visit to the IDF Gaza Division. He said, "This future defense system is a critical project for Israel. The defense establishment is intensively working to provide a multilayer defense system against missiles and rockets in order to ensure the safety of the nation's people."
The Arrow II intercepted a missile, built by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. that was launched from an Air Force combat jet. The target was a more sophisticated target than in previous Arrow tests. The Great Pine radar system, built by Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (IAI) (TASE: ARSP.B1) unit Elta Electronics Ltd., used in the test is an upgraded early warning defense and tracking Green Pine radar system.
$2.5 billion has been invested in the Arrow to date. Despite today's success, defense source hinted that if the calls to cut the defense budget are realized, this was liable to affect strategic programs such as the Arrow.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on April 7, 2009
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