Israeli Defense Ministry: Rocket defense system passes final tests, to be deployed by November
By APMonday, July 19, 2010
Israel: Rocket defense system ready to go
JERUSALEM — Israel’s Defense Ministry says its “Iron Dome” rocket defense system is ready to go.
A statement from the ministry says the system passed its final tests on Monday, and the first two batteries will be deployed by November.
The “Iron Dome” system tracks incoming rockets, intercepting and destroying them far from their targets.
The system is seen as a main component in Israel’s defense against the homemade and imported rockets fired by Palestinian militants in Gaza, as well as the longer range rockets in the hands of Hezbollah guerrillas on Israel’s border with Lebanon.
The statement said the successful tests involved multiple incoming targets and coordination with other air force systems.
Development of the Iron Dome system cost about $200 million.
