Sources believe the bombs are likely to be used to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities.
The Pentagon has notified the US Congress that it plans to sell 100 bunker-penetration bombs to Israel. Military commentators believe that the bombs are designated for an air attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
According to the “Yediot Ahronot” website, the Pentagon said that Israel had ordered 100 advanced GBU-28 bombs from Lockheed-Martin (NYSE: LMT) for $30 million. Israel will use US aid money for the purchase.
The bombs, which are designed for use by F-15 warplanes used by Israel, can be used to destroy underground fortified headquarters and control centers.
Pentagon sources said that sale of the bombs to Israel would not disturb the basic military balance in the region. The Council for a Livable World, however, claimed that the sale was provocative. The council expressed concern that the deal would promote an air attack against Iran or other targets in the region.
Published by Globes [online] - www.globes.co.il - on April 27, 2005