US-Israel air defense system David’s Sling passes final tests, could be ready for ’16

The system, which is designed to stop long-range rockets, drones and cruise missiles, could be operational for the Israeli Air Force in 2016.

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(JTA) — The joint U.S.-Israel air defense system known as David’s Sling has passed its final round of tests and could be operational for next year.

The successful tests of the system, which is designed to stop long-range rockets, drones and cruise missiles, were announced Monday by Israel’s Defense Ministry. Israel is scheduled to receive one David’s Sling battery in the coming months, according to reports.

David’s Sling is intended to supplement the Iron Dome system, which targets short-range rockets, and the Arrow system targeting ballistic missiles, both of which are already in operation.

The U.S. defense contractor Raytheon is collaborating on David’s Sling, also known as Magic Wand, with Israel’s state-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd.

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