AIPAC 04/04/2017 DAVID'S SLING OPERATIONAL!

Israel Declares David's Sling Missile Shield Operational
 
Yesterday, Israel marked the operational deployment of the David's Sling missile defense system, rounding out Israel's multi-tiered missile defense array.

Jointly developed by Raytheon and Israel's Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd., David's Sling protects against short- to medium-range ballistic missiles, long-range artillery rockets, aircraft and low-flying cruise missiles. David's Sling fills the gap between the lower-tier Iron Dome and the higher-tier Arrow.

U.S. Missile Defense Agency Director Vice Adm. James Syring noted this has been "an impressive year for Israeli missile defense," adding, "Israel's defense systems have never been stronger."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked the United States for its generous support for the missile shield. "At a time when budgets are tight, please know that the government of Israel and the people of Israel are deeply grateful for the ongoing support by the United States of this crucial effort and the ongoing support of the United States for the general defense of Israel," said Netanyahu.Congress has played an essential role in Iron Dome's success, providing key funding to develop the system.

Click here to read a fact sheet with more information about U.S.-Israel missile defense cooperation.