Pentagon approves funding of four Iron Dome systems

Procurement of the batteries to defend Israel from Gaza rockets will cost the US Department of Defense $200 million.

26 May 11 09:26, Globes' correspondent

The US Department of Defense, the Pentagon, last night announced plans to purchase four Iron Dome missile defense systems to help Israel defend the region around Gaza from short-range rockets.

Head of the Pentagon's Missile Defense Agency Lt. Gen. Patrick O'Reilly said, "In our budget, we have a proposal to assist with procurement of four more batteries."

Procurement of the batteries will cost the US Department of Defense $200 million. The Pentagon has responded to a request by US President Barack Obama to buy the systems for Israel.

O'Reilly added, "The system has proven efficient in wartime. This is one which the US benefits from understanding and studying exactly how they've been successful with the Iron Dome system. US troops could face similar threats from a combat zone."

Israel is currently deploying two Iron Dome systems in the south protecting Beersheva and Ashkelon. Their positions may be changed as required.

In April, the system successfully intercepted short range rockets fired from Gaza for the first time.

Each Iron Dome systems costs $50 million, and each interceptor costs $40,000.

Published by Globes, Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on May 26, 2011

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