Amid the increasing use of drones by Hezbollah against Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) forces in southern Lebanon, the Benjamin Netanyahu announced the launch of a special program to counter the threat.
“A few weeks ago, I ordered the creation of a special program aimed at countering the threat from drones,” he said in a video message, adding that “already today I will be presented with a progress report on the issue.”
“It will take time, but we are on it,” he said, according to the Times of Israel.
The Israeli prime minister stressed that the new supplies will aim to strengthen the defense capabilities and autonomy of the country.
“We are procuring two squadrons of advanced aircraft, the F-35 and F-15IA,” he noted, adding: “These aircraft reinforce Israel’s overwhelming air superiority, a superiority that was demonstrated during Operation Rising Lion and now during Operation Roaring Lion.”
At the same time, he sent a clear message about the operational capabilities of the Israeli air force: “Our pilots can reach anywhere in Iran’s skies and are ready to do so if necessary.”
Referring to defensive self-sufficiency, he noted: “I have ordered investments in domestic production capabilities in the ammunition sector.”
Note that Israel plans to increase its defense budget by 350 billion shekels over the next decade, with a key goal of developing domestic production.
Finally, Netanyahu spoke of developing “innovative Israeli-built aircraft” that “will completely change the landscape,” without specifying whether they would be manned or unmanned.
