Pentagon wants more money for Israel's Iron Dome

US Defense Department to ask Congress for additional funding for Israel's short-range rocket defense system

Yitzhak Benhorin פורסם: 27.03.12, 22:08

WASHINGTON – The US Defense Department will ask Congress for additional funding for Israel's Iron Dome defense system, Ynet learned Tuesday.

Pentagon press secretary George Little said in a statement that short-range rocket defense system has been critical in recent weeks, when nearly 300 rockets were fired at southern Israel from Gaza.

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The Iron Dome system intercepted more than 80% of its targets.

Little said the Pentagon and Israel have discussed US support for buying additional Iron Dome systems and will ask Congress for money.

The Iron Dome system received $205 million in 2011. The current budget has no money for the program.

Defense Minister Ehud Barak welcomed the statement, which he said reflects US Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta's willingness to assist Israel is purchasing additional barratries.

"The American decision is further reflects that depth of Israel-US defense relations and it's a badge of honor to Israel's military industries, which developed Iron Dome.

"I welcome the American administration's decision to aid in bolstering Israel's security," he said.

AP contributed to this report