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The Arrow Weapon System (AWS), the upper-most tier in the Israeli strategic capability, entered into a new era on Wednesday morning 20 Teves in its defense from ballistic missiles threats. Before this, the AWS consisted

of Arrow-2 interceptors, and has now added for the first time the Arrow-3 operational interceptor (made by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)/MLM).

The Arrow-3 interceptor is a world-class missile that, together with the Arrow-2, expands the defense envelope provided to the State of Israel. The Arrow-3 interceptor capabilities enable longer range, higher altitude (exo-atmospheric) and more precise ballistic missile engagements. The combined interception capabilities of the Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 will significantly reduce the possibilities of ballistic missiles impacting the State of Israel.

In a formal ceremony, the Israel Missile Defense Organization (IMDO), a division of the Israeli Ministry of Defense, transferred the operational Arrow-3 interceptors to the Israeli Air Force (IAF) Aerial Defense Array. The Arrow-3 development program, one of the joint programs between Israel and the United States, was exceptionally co-managed by the US Missile Defense Agency and IMDO. The US contribution to the program is a key reason Israel has achieved this remarkable accomplishment. Additionally, Boeing (US), the major subcontractor to IAI/ MLM, played a prominent role in the development and production of the components for the innovative Arrow-3 interceptor.

During the integration process of the new interceptor, the weapons system components were fully upgraded. These substantial improvements are the results of the finest minds in the defense industry, who diligently worked day and night to achieve this milestone. The Battle Management Center (made

by Elbit) has new significant capabilities as well as the radar detection array (made by IAI/ ELTA), which improved its ability to take on the increasingly growing threat.

As the threats continue to grow and new emerging threats surface, IMOD, IMDO and the US are dedicated to the continued development and enhancement of the Israeli Ballistic Missile Defense elements and systems to provide the appropriate defense solutions. Undeniably, the Arrow Weapon System’s unique and expanding capabilities place Israel among the most advanced countries in the

World in the ability to defense against ballistic missile threats.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)