Israel May Reduce Dependency On American Jets With New Cruise Missiles

Israel’s Defense Ministry is reportedly considering buying large quantities of inexpensive, long-range cruise missiles to reduce reliance on American fighter jets and expand independent strike options. Haaretz reported on July 23 that the ministry’s Directorate of Defense Research and Development is doing an initial review of acquiring cruise missiles that would be cheaper than major manufacturers’ offerings and that could be produced quickly and at scale. The concept echoes a proposal from a former Israeli defense minister for a separate missile corps, aimed at lessening dependence on Israel’s technologically advanced air force. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also wants to end U.S. military aid within the next decade and has pushed for work on a future homegrown fighter, with the F-35 fleet already in service and more on order.