The first delivery of new model AH-64D Apache attack helicopters ordered by the Israel Defense Force (IDF) will be delivered in the first quarter of 2004, Boeing (NYSE:BA) VP international relations and former US ambassador to Israel Thomas D. Pickering revealed today.
Speaking at a media conference in Tel Aviv, Pickering said that Israel had ordered six gunships. He noted that Israeli helicopter pilots recently tested the new Apache gunships in the US, including weapons tests.
Pickering said that progress on the joint project between Boeing and Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) in developing the Arrow anti-ballistic missile system, was satisfactory for both parties involved. In answer to the question as to whether the US would permit Israel to sell the Arrow to third party countries, Pickering said, "This is under the jurisdiction of the United States government in the framework of its talks with the Israeli government, and the Boeing Company is not party to the matter."
Pickering noted that since the 1980s, Boeing had amassed $2.2 billion in reciprocal procurement agreements with local Israeli industries. He said that of that amount, $500 million was made without any obligation, and only because of Boeing's desire to do business with the Israeli companies.
Pickering was in Israel to receive an honorary doctorate from Ben Gurion University of the Negev, in recognition of his contribution to advancing the regional peace process. During his visit, Pickering will meet with Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, and government ministers.
In answer to the question as to whether El Al Israel Airlines (TASE:ELAL) would buy Airbus aircraft in the future, Pickering said, "El Al and other Israeli airlines have always viewed Boeing as a good and quality supplier, and we hope it will be that way in the future as well."
Published by Globes [online] - www.globes.co.il - on Monday, November 22, 2004