(Jewish Institute for National Security of America) The U.S. increasingly depends on Israel to uphold regional stability in the Middle East due to rising threats from Iran and others, while America seeks to reduce its footprint in the region. We recommend providing Israel what it needs to secure a strategic advantage over the growing challenges. Priorities for the IDF include, but are not limited to: Combat aircraft, including an additional Lockheed Martin F-35 squadron, and potentially new Boeing F-15I advanced fighters in the interim while the F-35 squadron is onboarded. Airborne refueling tankers, including the latest-generation Boeing KC-46. Longer-range transport helicopters like the Lockheed Martin CH-53K, and Bell Boeing V-22 tilt-rotor aircraft. Precision guided munitions such as Boeing JDAM kits for unguided munitions, Boeing GBU-39 and Raytheon GBU-53/B small diameter bombs, and Lockheed Martin AGM-114 Hellfire missiles. Missile defense systems such as Rafael-Raytheon Iron Dome, Rafael-Raytheon David's Sling and IAI-Boeing Arrow 2 and Arrow 3, as well as interceptors for these systems. Providing these weapons to Israel would send a clear strategic signal that American policymakers appreciate the rising risks from Iran and other adversaries to both the U.S. and Israel. Moreover, the American worker and economy are key beneficiaries, since Israel must spend the lion's share (and eventually all) of U.S. military aid funds on U.S.-made equipment.
2019-12-10 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive