Israel Reassesses Defense Options

Aviation Week and Space Technology ^ | 7/9/2010 | David A. Fulghum

[ErnstStavroBlofeld]

Israel is making plans to both integrate the stealthy F-35 in smaller than desired numbers or, in extremis, to do without stealth altogether.

Electronic specialists say they are cobbling together more powerful electronic warfare systems based on wide-frequency active, electronically scanned array (AESA) radar to protect their non-stealthy aircraft. Defense officials contend that Israel is exploring the integrated use of manned and unmanned aircraft to attack defended air space. Aerospace designers hint that they are looking at stealthy UAV designs as well as at faster, higher-altitude and larger aircraft. There also are suggestions that programs in cyber-operations and network and electronic attack are under intense study as potential tactical weapons that can strike at expended ranges.

One of the few officials to talk openly about the contingency planning is Joseph Ackerman, CEO of Elbit Systems, who gave Aviation Week his perspective on the situation.

“We want Israel to have the very best system available,” Ackerman says. “I think we will eventually see a balance among U.S. [export policy], Israeli air force requirements and industry participation. There is a strong need to make the deal happen.”

However, several defense specialists contend that the F-35 may be the last opportunity to buy into manned stealth. Even a small force would be preferable to none as a deterrent

[SunkenCiv]

Thanks sonofstrangelove.

Electronic specialists say they are cobbling together more powerful electronic warfare systems based on wide-frequency active, electronically scanned array (AESA) radar to protect their non-stealthy aircraft. Defense officials contend that Israel is exploring the integrated use of manned and unmanned aircraft to attack defended air space. Aerospace designers hint that they are looking at stealthy UAV designs as well as at faster, higher-altitude and larger aircraft.