Article Posted on : - Mar 10, 2014

Iron Dome Weapon System. A Rafael photo

WASHINGTON (BNS): The United States and Israel have signed an agreement to continue support for the production of the Iron Dome weapon system, the U S Missile Defence Agency (MDA) said.

The agreement concluded between the two countries on 5 March represents strategic value for both nations.

Israel will obtain valuable resources to contribute to its defence and U S industry will receive meaningful co-production opportunities for Iron Dome components, the MDA said in a statement.

Under the terms of the agreement, $429 million will be transferred immediately to Israel to support Iron Dome procurement.

The Iron Dome system is capable of intercepting and destroying short-range rockets, and mortar and artillery shells, and is an invaluable component of Israeli missile defence.