Globes correspondent Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (IAI) (TASE: ARSP.B1) has taken delivery of it first Arrow 3 anti-ballistic missile canister from its Mississippi-based subsidiary Stark. Attending the ceremony were Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant and several members of the Mississippi Congressional Delegation along with senior officials of the Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMOD). Stark was recently chosen to manufacture canisters for the Arrow-3, an integral component to the latest generation of missile defense systems developed by IAI and deployed by the IMOD to the IAF.
The Arrow Weapon System (AWS) is the upper tier long range defense system against ballistic missiles threats and is the world’s first operational, national missile defense system. IAI is the prime contractor for AWS and responsible for Arrow 2&3 interceptors development, production and system integration. The Arrow-3 interceptor capabilities defend against longer range, higher altitude (exo-atmospheric) and precise ballistic missile engagements. The combined interception capabilities of the Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 will enhance Israel's missile defense shields.
IAI Systems, Missiles & Space Group general manager and EVP Boaz Levy said, "We are pleased to mark this event with our partners at Stark that symbolizes the full cooperation between Israel and the US. Stark's missile defense capabilities enable IAI to manufacture parts of the AWS in Mississippi and serve as a basis for future expansion on missile defense initiatives and other activities".
IMDO Director Moshe Patel said, "The Israeli Ministry of Defense is proud to mark here in Mississippi another achievement representing fruitful long term cooperation between the US and Israel for building a strong protective shield to the State of Israel against Missiles & Rockets. The strong partnership and commitment between the Missile Defense Agency and the IMDO created a world-class interceptor that, together with the Arrow 2, expands the ballistic missile defense envelope provided to the State of Israel. Stark company joins many other US vendors and manufacturers that do an exceptional work and produce high-end components to our Arrow, David's Sling and Iron Dome systems."
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on September 5, 2018
© Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd. 2018