Israel announced on Thursday that the United States has granted its approval for the sale of the Arrow 3 hypersonic missile defense system to Germany, marking the largest military transaction between the two nations valued at $3.5 billion. The Arrow 3 system, a collaborative effort between Israel and the United States, has been specifically developed to intercept ballistic missiles in the upper reaches of Earth's atmosphere.
According to a statement from Israel's defense ministry, the US State Department formally informed them of the green light given to Germany to procure the Arrow 3 system. In the forthcoming agreement, high-ranking officials from the Israeli and German defense ministries are set to finalize a letter of commitment, accompanied by an initial payment of $600 million.
Distinguished by its exceptional long-range interception capabilities, especially in high-altitude, exo-atmospheric scenarios, the Arrow 3 system stands as an exemplar in its category. Employing a precision "hit-to-kill" methodology, it excels in neutralizing incoming threats.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, reflecting on the historical significance of the accord, underlined its transformative impact on Israel's military prowess and economic stability. He also noted the symbolic importance of Germany, historically significant to the Jewish community, acquiring Israeli defense capabilities.
The Arrow 3 system, manufactured by the Israeli Aerospace Industries (IAI), boasts the remarkable ability to intercept ballistic missiles launched from distances reaching up to 2,400 kilometers (1,490 miles). Its initial deployment at an Israeli air force base dates back to 2017, where it has been instrumental in safeguarding the nation against potential aggressions from Iran and Syria.
Pending parliamentary approvals in both Germany and Israel, the final contract for the transaction is anticipated to be inked by the conclusion of 2023. Germany, anticipating delivery in the last quarter of 2025, is reinforcing NATO's aerial defenses in response to Russia's ongoing missile activities in Ukraine. This initiative, termed the European Sky Shield, has garnered support from over a dozen European nations, echoing a collective commitment to bolstering regional security.
(AFP)
0 Comments