November 30, 2007:
The RAF deployed a HERTI system in Afghanistan this summer as part of the unique project Morrigan collaboration between the Royal Air Force and BAE Systems. Project Morrigan is a joint initiative between the RAF Air Warfare Centre and BAE Systems. Launched in September 2006, it aims to integrate HERTI UAV systems into UK forces for a short period in order to develop potential Tactics, Techniques & Procedures for the integration of HERTI's capabilities into existing joint manned/unmanned force structures.
Commenting on HERTI's role in Afghanistan Wing Commander Mike Humphreys, Officer Commanding of the RAF's UAV Battlelab, said: "Whilst the objectives and outputs from the exercise remain classified, the HERTI system has been successful in demonstrating its capability in an operational environment. Both the RAF and BAE Systems are satisfied with the progress and development of the project thus far and we look forward to building on this in the coming months."
With its ability to take off, complete a full mission and land - all at the click of a computer mouse - HERTI has been designed to meet a wide variety of operational needs both cost effectively and with extremely high levels of reliability whilst removing the need for an operator or pilot to control the aircraft from the ground.
The HERTI UAV is one of a family of unmanned air vehicles (UAV) being developed by BAE Systems through its Autonomous Systems and Future Capability, Integrated Systems Technologies and Australian businesses. Through this work, BAE Systems has been able to translate high levels of autonomy into increased operational effectiveness.
The HERTI air vehicle and its unique ground control station is showcased at LIMA in its production configuration. When coupled with BAE System' Imagery Collection & Exploitation (ICE) system, the aircraft offers a real potential in the fields of maritime, coastline and border surveillance as well as showing broader potential for areas such as pipeline, plant and infrastructure surveillance, and insurgent detection.
("Lockheed Martin-built Trident II D5 Missile Achieves Record 120 Successful Test Launches in a Row," Lockeed Martin Press Release, November 29, 2007).
The RAF deployed a HERTI system in Afghanistan this summer as part of the unique project Morrigan collaboration between the Royal Air Force and BAE Systems. Project Morrigan is a joint initiative between the RAF Air Warfare Centre and BAE Systems. Launched in September 2006, it aims to integrate HERTI UAV systems into UK forces for a short period in order to develop potential Tactics, Techniques & Procedures for the integration of HERTI's capabilities into existing joint manned/unmanned force structures.
Commenting on HERTI's role in Afghanistan Wing Commander Mike Humphreys, Officer Commanding of the RAF's UAV Battlelab, said: "Whilst the objectives and outputs from the exercise remain classified, the HERTI system has been successful in demonstrating its capability in an operational environment. Both the RAF and BAE Systems are satisfied with the progress and development of the project thus far and we look forward to building on this in the coming months."
With its ability to take off, complete a full mission and land - all at the click of a computer mouse - HERTI has been designed to meet a wide variety of operational needs both cost effectively and with extremely high levels of reliability whilst removing the need for an operator or pilot to control the aircraft from the ground.
The HERTI UAV is one of a family of unmanned air vehicles (UAV) being developed by BAE Systems through its Autonomous Systems and Future Capability, Integrated Systems Technologies and Australian businesses. Through this work, BAE Systems has been able to translate high levels of autonomy into increased operational effectiveness.
The HERTI air vehicle and its unique ground control station is showcased at LIMA in its production configuration. When coupled with BAE System' Imagery Collection & Exploitation (ICE) system, the aircraft offers a real potential in the fields of maritime, coastline and border surveillance as well as showing broader potential for areas such as pipeline, plant and infrastructure surveillance, and insurgent detection.
("Lockheed Martin-built Trident II D5 Missile Achieves Record 120 Successful Test Launches in a Row," Lockeed Martin Press Release, November 29, 2007).
November 30, 2007:
Sheikh Mohsen Al Awaji, a prominent Saudi Muslim cleric: "By focusing on the security approach, the state has eliminated the visible threat...But the latent threat is there, and it is a big one. There is no guarantee that (the crackdown) will always succeed" unless it is accompanied by an effort to "confront the deviant thinking" of the [Al Qaeda] terrorists.
Fares bin Huzam, a Saudi journalist and researcher: "The takfeeri ideology is there, and the ground is fertile for it – through the spreading of hatred and hostility toward non-Muslims and foreigners...It’s not in the (academic) curricula. It’s in the street, in mosques, in seminars...It may have decreased, but just a little."
("Ideological War Needed to Fight Saudi Extremism," Agence France-Presse, November 30, 2007).
Sheikh Mohsen Al Awaji, a prominent Saudi Muslim cleric: "By focusing on the security approach, the state has eliminated the visible threat...But the latent threat is there, and it is a big one. There is no guarantee that (the crackdown) will always succeed" unless it is accompanied by an effort to "confront the deviant thinking" of the [Al Qaeda] terrorists.
Fares bin Huzam, a Saudi journalist and researcher: "The takfeeri ideology is there, and the ground is fertile for it – through the spreading of hatred and hostility toward non-Muslims and foreigners...It’s not in the (academic) curricula. It’s in the street, in mosques, in seminars...It may have decreased, but just a little."
("Ideological War Needed to Fight Saudi Extremism," Agence France-Presse, November 30, 2007).
November 29, 2007:
The last fall exercise of the Paratrooper Brigade came to a close today. Those participating in the exercise were the soldiers of Battalion 101 of the Paratroops. It began with a scenario involving helicopters in which the combat soldiers landed in the north of the Golan Heights and performed an exercise which tested the battalion to its limit. "The battalion performed exercises for several days in the field , where they got very little sleep, and went through much walking and climbing," explained the commander of the Paratrooper Brigade, Colonel Herzi Halevi.
During the night, the battalion performed exercises which included bringing forces by helicopter and walking to a point and attacking positions nearby. "One of the strategies which make an attack possible is helicopter transport. This shows a cooperative effort with the Air Force that is seen in the air transport of forces or the assistance of attack helicopters in battle," noted Colonel Halevi.
"This exercise combines all of the parts of the battalion in a better manner. It displays the specialized abilities of the battalion, and ultimately molds the battalion into a single cast which can better handle the challenges of war," said 101 Battalion Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Ariel Yohanan.
"I think that the soldiers benefit in two ways from these exercises," concluded the Paratrooper Brigade Commander, Colonel Herzi Halevi. "They become better soldiers. This exercise simulates a combat scenario of continuous battle as realistically as possible, and includes perpetual strain while carrying heavy loads."
("A Scenario for the Paratroopers," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 29, 2007).
The last fall exercise of the Paratrooper Brigade came to a close today. Those participating in the exercise were the soldiers of Battalion 101 of the Paratroops. It began with a scenario involving helicopters in which the combat soldiers landed in the north of the Golan Heights and performed an exercise which tested the battalion to its limit. "The battalion performed exercises for several days in the field , where they got very little sleep, and went through much walking and climbing," explained the commander of the Paratrooper Brigade, Colonel Herzi Halevi.
During the night, the battalion performed exercises which included bringing forces by helicopter and walking to a point and attacking positions nearby. "One of the strategies which make an attack possible is helicopter transport. This shows a cooperative effort with the Air Force that is seen in the air transport of forces or the assistance of attack helicopters in battle," noted Colonel Halevi.
"This exercise combines all of the parts of the battalion in a better manner. It displays the specialized abilities of the battalion, and ultimately molds the battalion into a single cast which can better handle the challenges of war," said 101 Battalion Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Ariel Yohanan.
"I think that the soldiers benefit in two ways from these exercises," concluded the Paratrooper Brigade Commander, Colonel Herzi Halevi. "They become better soldiers. This exercise simulates a combat scenario of continuous battle as realistically as possible, and includes perpetual strain while carrying heavy loads."
("A Scenario for the Paratroopers," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 29, 2007).
November 29, 2007:
The United Kingdom's Defence Equipment & Support Organization in the Ministry of Defense awarded Lockheed Martin a $4.8 million contract to procure additional Desert Hawk III Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Together with a $6.3 million award in April, the contracts are directed at increasing the capability of the British Army.
The Desert Hawk III UAS consists of a light-weight, hand-launched, ruggedized air vehicle that includes a man-portable ground station. The UAS provides autonomous intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capability, including terrain avoidance and dynamic in-flight re-tasking. Desert Hawk has provided important support to British forces in both Afghanistan and Iraq.
Under the contract, Lockheed Martin will provide additional systems to British forces with the latest generation Desert Hawk UAS. The design of the Desert Hawk III maximizes the system’s target detection and recognition capabilities by using a long-endurance air vehicle capable of operating in high-wind environments, such as those experienced in the desert. The Desert Hawk III system’s air vehicle is less-detectable by ground-based foes and includes steerable plug-and-play imaging payload capabilities, providing British forces with greater situational awareness.
Other Desert Hawk III elements previously delivered to the British Army include ground control stations, remote video terminals, field repair kits, a spare parts program and technical support.
("United Kingdom Awards Lockheed Martin $4.8 Million For Desert Hawk III Unmanned Aircraft Systsems," Lockheed Martin Press Release, November 29, 2007).
The United Kingdom's Defence Equipment & Support Organization in the Ministry of Defense awarded Lockheed Martin a $4.8 million contract to procure additional Desert Hawk III Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Together with a $6.3 million award in April, the contracts are directed at increasing the capability of the British Army.
The Desert Hawk III UAS consists of a light-weight, hand-launched, ruggedized air vehicle that includes a man-portable ground station. The UAS provides autonomous intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capability, including terrain avoidance and dynamic in-flight re-tasking. Desert Hawk has provided important support to British forces in both Afghanistan and Iraq.
Under the contract, Lockheed Martin will provide additional systems to British forces with the latest generation Desert Hawk UAS. The design of the Desert Hawk III maximizes the system’s target detection and recognition capabilities by using a long-endurance air vehicle capable of operating in high-wind environments, such as those experienced in the desert. The Desert Hawk III system’s air vehicle is less-detectable by ground-based foes and includes steerable plug-and-play imaging payload capabilities, providing British forces with greater situational awareness.
Other Desert Hawk III elements previously delivered to the British Army include ground control stations, remote video terminals, field repair kits, a spare parts program and technical support.
("United Kingdom Awards Lockheed Martin $4.8 Million For Desert Hawk III Unmanned Aircraft Systsems," Lockheed Martin Press Release, November 29, 2007).
November 29, 2007:
During the past week, Palestinians fired over 70 mortar shells and over 25 Qassam rockets at Israeli communities in the Western Negev and at IDF forces operating in Gaza. Of these, approximately 35 mortar shells and 20 Qassam rockets landed in Israel.
Ground, armored and engineering forces, in coordination with the Air Force, operated against the terror infrastructure in the Gaza Strip in order to distance the terror organizations, in particular Hamas, from the security fence, and to prevent rocket and mortar shell fire into Israel.
The IDF carried out aerial and ground attacks during the past week and identified hitting 5 Palestinian terrorist involved in the firing of rocket and mortar shells at Israel from the southern Gaza. The IDF also identified hitting 15 Palestinian gunmen who were identified operating against IDF forces in the Gaza Strip and near the security fence, 6 of them in the past 24 hours.
In addition, the IDF carried out attacks against 2 posts of the Hamas terror organization in the southern part of the Gaza Strip. The attacks were carried in response to the continuous mortar shelling of Israeli communities.
The terror organizations, in particular Hamas have made continuous attempts to kill or injure Israeli civilians and IDF forces, especially in the area adjacent to the Gaza security fence. The IDF will continue to operate along the security fence in order to prevent the terror organizations from operating near the fence, and to protect Israeli civilians living in the Western Negev.
("Increased Rocket and Mortar Fire from Gaza into Israel Over Past Week," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 29, 2007).
During the past week, Palestinians fired over 70 mortar shells and over 25 Qassam rockets at Israeli communities in the Western Negev and at IDF forces operating in Gaza. Of these, approximately 35 mortar shells and 20 Qassam rockets landed in Israel.
Ground, armored and engineering forces, in coordination with the Air Force, operated against the terror infrastructure in the Gaza Strip in order to distance the terror organizations, in particular Hamas, from the security fence, and to prevent rocket and mortar shell fire into Israel.
The IDF carried out aerial and ground attacks during the past week and identified hitting 5 Palestinian terrorist involved in the firing of rocket and mortar shells at Israel from the southern Gaza. The IDF also identified hitting 15 Palestinian gunmen who were identified operating against IDF forces in the Gaza Strip and near the security fence, 6 of them in the past 24 hours.
In addition, the IDF carried out attacks against 2 posts of the Hamas terror organization in the southern part of the Gaza Strip. The attacks were carried in response to the continuous mortar shelling of Israeli communities.
The terror organizations, in particular Hamas have made continuous attempts to kill or injure Israeli civilians and IDF forces, especially in the area adjacent to the Gaza security fence. The IDF will continue to operate along the security fence in order to prevent the terror organizations from operating near the fence, and to protect Israeli civilians living in the Western Negev.
("Increased Rocket and Mortar Fire from Gaza into Israel Over Past Week," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 29, 2007).
November 29, 2007:
Iran claims to have manufactured a submarine equipped with sonar-evading technology. The craft had reportedly been launched in the Persian Gulf.
Navy Chief, Adm. Habibollah Sayyari, is quoted by state television as saying the new Ghadir-class submarine is the second Iranian-built underwater craft outfitted with "state-of-the-art electronic equipment."
Iran's two domestically built submarines are reportedly capable of firing missiles and torpedoes simultaneously.
("Iran Manufactures Sonar-Evading Submarine," Fars News Agency, November 29, 2007).
Iran claims to have manufactured a submarine equipped with sonar-evading technology. The craft had reportedly been launched in the Persian Gulf.
Navy Chief, Adm. Habibollah Sayyari, is quoted by state television as saying the new Ghadir-class submarine is the second Iranian-built underwater craft outfitted with "state-of-the-art electronic equipment."
Iran's two domestically built submarines are reportedly capable of firing missiles and torpedoes simultaneously.
("Iran Manufactures Sonar-Evading Submarine," Fars News Agency, November 29, 2007).
November 29, 2007:
Captain Yifat began her military service as an assistant flight-controller. She then volunteered to the Flight Course Academy, graduating in 2002 within the Transportation Branch. Capt. Yifat was stationed in the "Karnaf" Flight Squadron and rose through the operational positions within the squadron. In the past six months, she served as a commander in the ground stage of the basic training course at the Flight Academy, in which flight cadets undergo navigational and other various physical challenges.
Yesterday, the Head of the IAF Manpower Branch appointed Capt. Yifat Deputy Commander of the Transport Squadron, following a session regarding manning combat positions.
Captain Yifat is one of seventeen combat female soldiers serving in the Israeli Air Force, which offers various positions in which women can fully integrate: Combat pilot, assault helicopter pilot, combat helicopter pilot, transport pilot, combat navigator, transport navigator and flight engineer. In recent years, dozens of young women have been accepted by the Air Force to undergo flight course. Seventeen of them succeeded in finishing the course as combat air crew members, while others have already completed their service and partake in reserve service at the Air Force Squadrons.
("First Female Officer Appointed Deputy Squadron Commander," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 28, 2007).
Captain Yifat began her military service as an assistant flight-controller. She then volunteered to the Flight Course Academy, graduating in 2002 within the Transportation Branch. Capt. Yifat was stationed in the "Karnaf" Flight Squadron and rose through the operational positions within the squadron. In the past six months, she served as a commander in the ground stage of the basic training course at the Flight Academy, in which flight cadets undergo navigational and other various physical challenges.
Yesterday, the Head of the IAF Manpower Branch appointed Capt. Yifat Deputy Commander of the Transport Squadron, following a session regarding manning combat positions.
Captain Yifat is one of seventeen combat female soldiers serving in the Israeli Air Force, which offers various positions in which women can fully integrate: Combat pilot, assault helicopter pilot, combat helicopter pilot, transport pilot, combat navigator, transport navigator and flight engineer. In recent years, dozens of young women have been accepted by the Air Force to undergo flight course. Seventeen of them succeeded in finishing the course as combat air crew members, while others have already completed their service and partake in reserve service at the Air Force Squadrons.
("First Female Officer Appointed Deputy Squadron Commander," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 28, 2007).
November 28, 2007:
The Iranian Ashura missile (named after the holy mourning ceremony marking the death of Shi'ite imam Hossein) is reportedly capable of achieving a 2,000 kilometer range.
Iranian Defense Minister Mostafa Mohammad Najjar: "The construction of the Ashura missile with a range of 2,000 kilometers is one of the accomplishments of the ministry of defence...The missiles are being made in line with Iran's deterrent and defence doctrine."
The Iranian Ghadr-1 (Power) has a range of 1,800 kilometres. The Shahab-3 is estimated to have a range of 1,300 - 2,000 kilometer range.
Steven A. Hildreth: "There is little disagreement among most experts that Iran has acquired some number of ballistic missiles from other countries and has developed other ballistic missiles indigenously or in cooperation with others. Iranian ballistic missile proliferation has been a matter of U.S. and international concern."
("Iran Builds New Missile Capable of Hitting Israel," Agence France-Presse, November 28, 2007; Steven A. Hildreth, "Iran’s Ballistic Missile Programs: An Overview," CRS Report for Congress, November 8, 2007).
The Iranian Ashura missile (named after the holy mourning ceremony marking the death of Shi'ite imam Hossein) is reportedly capable of achieving a 2,000 kilometer range.
Iranian Defense Minister Mostafa Mohammad Najjar: "The construction of the Ashura missile with a range of 2,000 kilometers is one of the accomplishments of the ministry of defence...The missiles are being made in line with Iran's deterrent and defence doctrine."
The Iranian Ghadr-1 (Power) has a range of 1,800 kilometres. The Shahab-3 is estimated to have a range of 1,300 - 2,000 kilometer range.
Steven A. Hildreth: "There is little disagreement among most experts that Iran has acquired some number of ballistic missiles from other countries and has developed other ballistic missiles indigenously or in cooperation with others. Iranian ballistic missile proliferation has been a matter of U.S. and international concern."
("Iran Builds New Missile Capable of Hitting Israel," Agence France-Presse, November 28, 2007; Steven A. Hildreth, "Iran’s Ballistic Missile Programs: An Overview," CRS Report for Congress, November 8, 2007).
November 28, 2007:
Salah Al-Bardaweel: "Bush did not clarify the boundaries of the Palestinian statehood and did not set a timetable for its creation...Bush did not speak about the statehood's form, nature and the refugees and he did not specify the capital either...Abbas is not authorized to make decision on behalf of the Palestinian people."
("Hamas: Statehood Bush Promised," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, November 28, 2007).
Salah Al-Bardaweel: "Bush did not clarify the boundaries of the Palestinian statehood and did not set a timetable for its creation...Bush did not speak about the statehood's form, nature and the refugees and he did not specify the capital either...Abbas is not authorized to make decision on behalf of the Palestinian people."
("Hamas: Statehood Bush Promised," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, November 28, 2007).
November 28, 2007:
U.S. Marine General James Jones (formerly NATO Supreme Allied Commander in Europe), is expected to monitor the moribund "Road Map" peace plan.
Bruce Riedel of the Brookings Institution: "There is, I think, considerable doubt remaining about whether the administration is prepared to take on the heavy lifting...To make this work."
("US to Tap General to Oversee Israeli-Palestinian Moves," Reuters, November 28, 2007).
U.S. Marine General James Jones (formerly NATO Supreme Allied Commander in Europe), is expected to monitor the moribund "Road Map" peace plan.
Bruce Riedel of the Brookings Institution: "There is, I think, considerable doubt remaining about whether the administration is prepared to take on the heavy lifting...To make this work."
("US to Tap General to Oversee Israeli-Palestinian Moves," Reuters, November 28, 2007).
November 28, 2007:
The Boeing Company has successfully demonstrated the communications and transmission security architecture of its proposed Transformational Satellite Communications System (TSAT).
During recent tests, Boeing used TEAM TSAT partner General Dynamics C4 Systems' Advanced INFOSEC Machine (AIM) to demonstrate how TSAT will send and receive encrypted messages once operational.
The tests, conducted at General Dynamics' facilities in Scottsdale, Ariz., supported the Defense Department's Crypto Modernization Initiative (CMI) to transform and modernize information assurance capabilities. The demonstration also showed key capabilities such as uploading and reprogramming algorithms over the network as well as other security functions.
"Our goal is to give the warfighter a high level of information security, availability of operation and protection against denial of service," said John Cole, vice president of Information Assurance for General Dynamics C4 Systems. "We are combining our space cryptographic solutions and embedded AIM technology to develop a fully reprogrammable, CMI-compliant, High Assurance Internet Protocol Encryptor (HAIPE®) for space to support TSAT's mission needs."
During the demonstration, TEAM TSAT also used Cisco Systems' Internet protocol router to encrypt multiple channels. Select terminal devices were updated with a new encryption keys during the tests to further demonstrate Internet protocol security.
("Boeing Demonstrates Maturity of TSAT Encryption System," Boeing Press Release, November 28, 2007).
The Boeing Company has successfully demonstrated the communications and transmission security architecture of its proposed Transformational Satellite Communications System (TSAT).
During recent tests, Boeing used TEAM TSAT partner General Dynamics C4 Systems' Advanced INFOSEC Machine (AIM) to demonstrate how TSAT will send and receive encrypted messages once operational.
The tests, conducted at General Dynamics' facilities in Scottsdale, Ariz., supported the Defense Department's Crypto Modernization Initiative (CMI) to transform and modernize information assurance capabilities. The demonstration also showed key capabilities such as uploading and reprogramming algorithms over the network as well as other security functions.
"Our goal is to give the warfighter a high level of information security, availability of operation and protection against denial of service," said John Cole, vice president of Information Assurance for General Dynamics C4 Systems. "We are combining our space cryptographic solutions and embedded AIM technology to develop a fully reprogrammable, CMI-compliant, High Assurance Internet Protocol Encryptor (HAIPE®) for space to support TSAT's mission needs."
During the demonstration, TEAM TSAT also used Cisco Systems' Internet protocol router to encrypt multiple channels. Select terminal devices were updated with a new encryption keys during the tests to further demonstrate Internet protocol security.
("Boeing Demonstrates Maturity of TSAT Encryption System," Boeing Press Release, November 28, 2007).
November 28, 2007:
The IAF targets a Hamas position in the southern Gaza Strip, killing two Hamas naval operatives. The IDF confirms a strike near Khan Yhounis, noting that it occured after Palestinian terrorists had fired 11 mortar shells and rockets at nearby Israeli communities.
One of the shells hits the Israeli town of Kerem Shalom, causing damage. Two other shells impact south of Kibbutz Erez and the fifth lands along the perimeter fence (southern Gaza).
(Mijal Grinberg, Yoav Stern and Youval Azoulay, "Palestinians: IAF Missiles Kill 2 Hamas Naval Officers in Gaza," Ha'aretz, November 28, 2007).
The IAF targets a Hamas position in the southern Gaza Strip, killing two Hamas naval operatives. The IDF confirms a strike near Khan Yhounis, noting that it occured after Palestinian terrorists had fired 11 mortar shells and rockets at nearby Israeli communities.
One of the shells hits the Israeli town of Kerem Shalom, causing damage. Two other shells impact south of Kibbutz Erez and the fifth lands along the perimeter fence (southern Gaza).
(Mijal Grinberg, Yoav Stern and Youval Azoulay, "Palestinians: IAF Missiles Kill 2 Hamas Naval Officers in Gaza," Ha'aretz, November 28, 2007).
November 28, 2007:
IDF forces engaged armed terrorist in two separate incidents in the Gaza Strip Tuesday morning. In the first incident IDF forces identified a suspect nearby to their location and opened fire. In another incident the forces identified a number of armed terrorist carrying various weapons on their persons including grenades, light weapons, flak jackets, magazines, knives and walkie-talkies. The forces opened fire and identified hitting two of the operatives.
Yesterday, in two separate incidents, terrorists attempted to attack IDF forces operating in northern Gaza Strip. The first incident occurred during IDF forces operations in the Erez Industrial Park near the security fence. Two armed terrorists were identified attempting to plant explosives near to where the forces were operating. The force opened fire at the armed terrorists and identified hitting both of them. Weapons and flak jackets were found on the persons of the operatives. The terrorists had been using the buildings of the Erez Industrial Park as a means of planning attacks against Israel. In the second incident IDF forces identified two armed terrorists attempting to plant explosives near the security fence in northern Gaza Strip. IDF forces opened fire and identified hitting the two. In another incident that occurred yesterday afternoon, IDF forces neutralized terrorists after they had thrown fired explosives at the troops.
Forces from the Golani Brigade, Armored and Engineering Corps and the IAF operated in this joint activity in order to thwart terror attacks from carried out against Israel and to neutralize the threat near the security fence.
("Eight Terrorist Killed During Recent IDF Operations," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 27, 2007).
IDF forces engaged armed terrorist in two separate incidents in the Gaza Strip Tuesday morning. In the first incident IDF forces identified a suspect nearby to their location and opened fire. In another incident the forces identified a number of armed terrorist carrying various weapons on their persons including grenades, light weapons, flak jackets, magazines, knives and walkie-talkies. The forces opened fire and identified hitting two of the operatives.
Yesterday, in two separate incidents, terrorists attempted to attack IDF forces operating in northern Gaza Strip. The first incident occurred during IDF forces operations in the Erez Industrial Park near the security fence. Two armed terrorists were identified attempting to plant explosives near to where the forces were operating. The force opened fire at the armed terrorists and identified hitting both of them. Weapons and flak jackets were found on the persons of the operatives. The terrorists had been using the buildings of the Erez Industrial Park as a means of planning attacks against Israel. In the second incident IDF forces identified two armed terrorists attempting to plant explosives near the security fence in northern Gaza Strip. IDF forces opened fire and identified hitting the two. In another incident that occurred yesterday afternoon, IDF forces neutralized terrorists after they had thrown fired explosives at the troops.
Forces from the Golani Brigade, Armored and Engineering Corps and the IAF operated in this joint activity in order to thwart terror attacks from carried out against Israel and to neutralize the threat near the security fence.
("Eight Terrorist Killed During Recent IDF Operations," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 27, 2007).
November 27, 2007:
"During the past 24 hours IDF forces have been operating against the terror organizations and the Hamas in particular, to prevent their relentless attempts to reach the security fence and execute attacks against Israel. These attempts have increased in the last 24 hours.
Yesterday, IDF forces identified two armed Palestinian gunmen planting an explosive device near the forces close to the Erez Crossing. The gunmen used buildings in the Erez Industrial Area to organize and execute attacks against IDF forces and the Israeli homefront. The soldiers fired at the gunmen and identified hitting them. The gunmen were wearing army vests and carrying weapons.
In another event yesterday, IDF forces fired at, and identified hitting two armed Palestinian gunmen suspected of planting an explosive device near the border fence between Israel and the northern part of the Gaza Strip.
In addition, yesterday afternoon, IDF forces carried out an attack against a cell of Palestinians after it launched mortar shells at IDF forces.
Early this morning, IDF forces identified a suspicious Palestinian crawling towards the forces. They fired at, and identified hitting him. In another incident around the same time, IDF forces identified several armed Palestinian gunmen. The forces fired at, and identified hitting the gunmen who were discovered to be carrying hand grenades, small arms, army vests, ammunition clips, knives and communications equipment.
The terror organizations, in particular Hamas have made continuous attempts to kill or injure Israeli civilians and IDF forces, especially in the area adjacent to the Gaza security fence. The IDF will continue to operate along the security fence in order to prevent the terror organizations from operating near the fence, and protect Israeli civilians living in the Western Negev."
("Summary of Events in Gaza Strip during Past 24 Hours," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 27, 2007).
"During the past 24 hours IDF forces have been operating against the terror organizations and the Hamas in particular, to prevent their relentless attempts to reach the security fence and execute attacks against Israel. These attempts have increased in the last 24 hours.
Yesterday, IDF forces identified two armed Palestinian gunmen planting an explosive device near the forces close to the Erez Crossing. The gunmen used buildings in the Erez Industrial Area to organize and execute attacks against IDF forces and the Israeli homefront. The soldiers fired at the gunmen and identified hitting them. The gunmen were wearing army vests and carrying weapons.
In another event yesterday, IDF forces fired at, and identified hitting two armed Palestinian gunmen suspected of planting an explosive device near the border fence between Israel and the northern part of the Gaza Strip.
In addition, yesterday afternoon, IDF forces carried out an attack against a cell of Palestinians after it launched mortar shells at IDF forces.
Early this morning, IDF forces identified a suspicious Palestinian crawling towards the forces. They fired at, and identified hitting him. In another incident around the same time, IDF forces identified several armed Palestinian gunmen. The forces fired at, and identified hitting the gunmen who were discovered to be carrying hand grenades, small arms, army vests, ammunition clips, knives and communications equipment.
The terror organizations, in particular Hamas have made continuous attempts to kill or injure Israeli civilians and IDF forces, especially in the area adjacent to the Gaza security fence. The IDF will continue to operate along the security fence in order to prevent the terror organizations from operating near the fence, and protect Israeli civilians living in the Western Negev."
("Summary of Events in Gaza Strip during Past 24 Hours," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 27, 2007).
November 27, 2007:
"IDF helicopters carried out an aerial attack against a post of the Hamas terrorist organization in the Southern Gaza Strip. The attack was carried out following the continuous launching of Qassam rockets and mortar shells at Israeli communities surrounding the Gaza Strip, including those fired at Kerem Shalom today.
Since June, Palestinians have fired at Israel an average of one Qassam rocket every 3 hours. Approx. 200 rockets have been launched since the beginning of November.
The IDF will continue to operate, using all means possible, in order to reduce the number of Qassam rockets and mortar shells being launched from the Gaza Strip at the Israeli home front."
("IDF Attacks Hamas Post in Gaza," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 27, 2007).
"IDF helicopters carried out an aerial attack against a post of the Hamas terrorist organization in the Southern Gaza Strip. The attack was carried out following the continuous launching of Qassam rockets and mortar shells at Israeli communities surrounding the Gaza Strip, including those fired at Kerem Shalom today.
Since June, Palestinians have fired at Israel an average of one Qassam rocket every 3 hours. Approx. 200 rockets have been launched since the beginning of November.
The IDF will continue to operate, using all means possible, in order to reduce the number of Qassam rockets and mortar shells being launched from the Gaza Strip at the Israeli home front."
("IDF Attacks Hamas Post in Gaza," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 27, 2007).
November 27, 2007:
Conal Urquhart, The Guardian: "Fresh milk is impossible to find but Viagra, TNT, dates or bullets are readily available...The [Gaza] border town of Rafah has become an unofficial free trade zone where goods are smuggled from Egypt through an ever increasing number of tunnels.
While many commodities are unavailable in the rest of Gaza, a variety of imports can be found in Rafah. In the pharmacies generic Viagra, made in India, is available for 37p per tablet. Towers of cartons of Egyptian cigarettes are for sale on pavements, the price having risen from £1 to £4 a packet since Israel stopped imports. Other imports are more dangerous: one teenager showed off a fist-sized lump of chalky TNT, which militant groups grind down to make the explosive for the rockets they fire into Israel."
Full Article Here.
(Conal Urquhart, "Bullets, Viagra and TNT on Tap as Tunnellers Beat the Blockade," Guardian, November 27, 2007).
Conal Urquhart, The Guardian: "Fresh milk is impossible to find but Viagra, TNT, dates or bullets are readily available...The [Gaza] border town of Rafah has become an unofficial free trade zone where goods are smuggled from Egypt through an ever increasing number of tunnels.
While many commodities are unavailable in the rest of Gaza, a variety of imports can be found in Rafah. In the pharmacies generic Viagra, made in India, is available for 37p per tablet. Towers of cartons of Egyptian cigarettes are for sale on pavements, the price having risen from £1 to £4 a packet since Israel stopped imports. Other imports are more dangerous: one teenager showed off a fist-sized lump of chalky TNT, which militant groups grind down to make the explosive for the rockets they fire into Israel."
Full Article Here.
(Conal Urquhart, "Bullets, Viagra and TNT on Tap as Tunnellers Beat the Blockade," Guardian, November 27, 2007).
November 27, 2007:
Lockheed Martin and Sanmina-SCI have signed a teaming agreement to compete for the U.S. Army program to upgrade thousands of existing tanks, trucks and tactical wheeled vehicles with a next-generation digital intercommunications system.
Lockheed Martin Systems Integration in Owego, NY, will be prime contractor and systems integrator with principal subcontractor Sanmina-SCI’s Defense and Aerospace Systems Division, Huntsville, AL. Together, the two companies will offer an enhanced tactical vehicle version of Sanmina-SCI’s proven TOCNET™ intercommunication system for the Army’s Vehicular Intercommunication System – Extended (VIS-X) competition.
Winner of the $3.5 billion VIS-X contract will integrate and support intercom systems in 54,000 vehicles worldwide, among them Abrams tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, up-armored HMMWVs and Army-operated commercial trucks. The VIS-X solution will provide vehicle crews with significant improvements in speech intelligibility and hearing protection, and will enable true on-the-move, command-and-control, over-the-horizon data and voice communications. The U.S. Army’s Communications-Electronics Command (CECOM), Ft. Monmouth, NJ, is expected to award a five-year indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract by mid 2008.
Sanmina-SCI’s digital TOCNETTM system is already successfully integrated on multiple U.S. Army vehicular and Tactical Operations Centers (TOCs) platforms, including Command Post Platform, Division, Brigade and Battalion TOCs. TOCNET™ is deployed on U.S. Marine Corps light armed command and control vehicles integrated by Lockheed Martin, and on Marine Corps Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles in Iraq, and has been selected as the Joint Intercommunications System for the MRAP vehicle. The system also is operating on a host of command and control air platforms, including VIP Blackhawk helicopters in Iraq.
("Lockheed Martin and Sanmina-Sci Join Forces to Compete for U.S. Army's Upgraded Vehicular Intercommuncations System," Lockheed Martin Press Release, November 26, 2007).
Lockheed Martin and Sanmina-SCI have signed a teaming agreement to compete for the U.S. Army program to upgrade thousands of existing tanks, trucks and tactical wheeled vehicles with a next-generation digital intercommunications system.
Lockheed Martin Systems Integration in Owego, NY, will be prime contractor and systems integrator with principal subcontractor Sanmina-SCI’s Defense and Aerospace Systems Division, Huntsville, AL. Together, the two companies will offer an enhanced tactical vehicle version of Sanmina-SCI’s proven TOCNET™ intercommunication system for the Army’s Vehicular Intercommunication System – Extended (VIS-X) competition.
Winner of the $3.5 billion VIS-X contract will integrate and support intercom systems in 54,000 vehicles worldwide, among them Abrams tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, up-armored HMMWVs and Army-operated commercial trucks. The VIS-X solution will provide vehicle crews with significant improvements in speech intelligibility and hearing protection, and will enable true on-the-move, command-and-control, over-the-horizon data and voice communications. The U.S. Army’s Communications-Electronics Command (CECOM), Ft. Monmouth, NJ, is expected to award a five-year indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract by mid 2008.
Sanmina-SCI’s digital TOCNETTM system is already successfully integrated on multiple U.S. Army vehicular and Tactical Operations Centers (TOCs) platforms, including Command Post Platform, Division, Brigade and Battalion TOCs. TOCNET™ is deployed on U.S. Marine Corps light armed command and control vehicles integrated by Lockheed Martin, and on Marine Corps Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles in Iraq, and has been selected as the Joint Intercommunications System for the MRAP vehicle. The system also is operating on a host of command and control air platforms, including VIP Blackhawk helicopters in Iraq.
("Lockheed Martin and Sanmina-Sci Join Forces to Compete for U.S. Army's Upgraded Vehicular Intercommuncations System," Lockheed Martin Press Release, November 26, 2007).
November 27, 2007:
- Palestinians fire a projectile that impacts west of Kfar Aza.
- One Palestinian is killed and at least 20 wounded during clashes between Hamas and Fatah in Hebron.
- Palestinians hurl rocks at Israeli vehicles traveling along the Halhoul road (Hebron sector).
- Palestinians fire a rocket that lands among the ruins of the former Israeli community of Alei Sinai.
- Palestians fire two mortar shells at Kerem Shalom.
- Palestinians fire two mortar shells at the Gaza Strip perimeter fence.
- IDF forces kill two Palestinian terrorists in the Kerem Shalom (Gaza Strip border) sector.
- Palestinian terrorists (northern Gaza Strip) fire a rocket at Israel that impacts south-west of Kibbutz Nir Am.
November 27, 2007:
Boeing and the U.S. Air Force have successfully demonstrated how an innovative application of a technology called active flow control enables -- for the first time -- munitions to be safely released from a weapons bay at high supersonic speeds.
During a recent test at the High-Speed Test Track at Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., researchers from Boeing Phantom Works and the Air Force Research Laboratory used a rocket sled and active flow control to successfully release a MK-82 Joint Direct Attack Munition Standard Test Vehicle at a speed of about Mach 2 (twice the speed of sound) from a weapons bay with a size approximating that of the U.S. Air Force B-1 bomber.
"Active flow control technology will enable safe separation of weapons from weapons bays of future high speed aircraft," said Jim Grove, AFRL program manager for High Frequency Excitation Active Flow Control for Supersonic Weapon Release, or HIFEX. "This program also demonstrates that sled testing can provide a lower risk technology evaluation alternative to flight testing in this complex, high risk environment," Grove said.
The active flow control configuration used in the HIFEX rocket sled test is a tandem array of microjets upstream of the weapons bay. Wind tunnel testing indicated that, without active flow control, the JDAM test vehicle would have returned to the bay.
"As it was, the active flow control microjets reduced the unsteady pressures inside the weapons bay and modified the flow outside the bay to ensure that the test vehicle went out of the rocket sled nose up," said Bill Bower, Boeing Phantom Works program manager for HIFEX.
("Boeing and AFRL Demonstrate First-Ever Supersonic Munitions Release," Boeing Press Release, November 26, 2007).
Boeing and the U.S. Air Force have successfully demonstrated how an innovative application of a technology called active flow control enables -- for the first time -- munitions to be safely released from a weapons bay at high supersonic speeds.
During a recent test at the High-Speed Test Track at Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., researchers from Boeing Phantom Works and the Air Force Research Laboratory used a rocket sled and active flow control to successfully release a MK-82 Joint Direct Attack Munition Standard Test Vehicle at a speed of about Mach 2 (twice the speed of sound) from a weapons bay with a size approximating that of the U.S. Air Force B-1 bomber.
"Active flow control technology will enable safe separation of weapons from weapons bays of future high speed aircraft," said Jim Grove, AFRL program manager for High Frequency Excitation Active Flow Control for Supersonic Weapon Release, or HIFEX. "This program also demonstrates that sled testing can provide a lower risk technology evaluation alternative to flight testing in this complex, high risk environment," Grove said.
The active flow control configuration used in the HIFEX rocket sled test is a tandem array of microjets upstream of the weapons bay. Wind tunnel testing indicated that, without active flow control, the JDAM test vehicle would have returned to the bay.
"As it was, the active flow control microjets reduced the unsteady pressures inside the weapons bay and modified the flow outside the bay to ensure that the test vehicle went out of the rocket sled nose up," said Bill Bower, Boeing Phantom Works program manager for HIFEX.
("Boeing and AFRL Demonstrate First-Ever Supersonic Munitions Release," Boeing Press Release, November 26, 2007).
November 26, 2007:
- Palestinians fire two mortar shells at Nahal Oz.
- Palestinians attempting to plant an explosive device along the perimeter fence (Kfar Aza sector) are targeted and killed by the IAF.
- Palestinians hurl rocks at an Israeli bus traveling between Beit Omar and and Carmei Tzur (West Bank).
- IDF forces (Duvdevan, special forces) arrest a PFLP terrorist north of Nablus.
- Palestinians hurl rocks at an Israeli bus at the Tzofim Junction (West Bank).
- Palestinians fire two mortar shells at Erez.
- Palestinians hurl rocks at an Israeli bus traveling in the Halhoul sector (West Bank).
- IDF forces apprehend a wanted Hamas terrorist in the Jericho sector (West Bank).
- Palestinians fire a rocket that impacts in the former Israeli community of Dugit.
- Two Palestinian terrorists are killed during an attempt to plant explosive devices along the perimeter fence (Erez sector).
- 8 IDF soldiers suffer smoke inhalation during operations in the Erez sector.
- Palestinians fire mortar shells at Erez. IDF forces return fire.
- Palestinian terrorists fire two rockets at Israel. One lands in Kibbutz Netiv Hassara and the other impacts near Zikim.
November 26, 2007:
Raytheon Company is awarded a $160 million, 18-month contract to develop a new system design for the next-generation Global Positioning System Control Segment. The contract was awarded by the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center.
The new control segment will revolutionize GPS command, control and mission capabilities and refocus operations for the current GPS Block II and all future GPS satellites on user effects-based operations. The system will include anti-jam capabilities, improved system security, accuracy and reliability and will be based on a modern service-oriented architecture to integrate government and industry open system standards.
"This award is an excellent opportunity for Raytheon to continue our fine performance in control systems while pursuing new areas for growth," said Michael D. Keebaugh, president of Raytheon's Intelligence and Information Systems (IIS) business. "With more than 40 years' experience delivering satellite ground command and control systems, we are uniquely qualified to deliver the right control system to enhance the Air Force, military and civil users' capabilities."
("Raytheon Selected to Design the Next GPS Control Segment for Precision Navigation and Timing," Raytheon Press Release, November 26, 2007).
Raytheon Company is awarded a $160 million, 18-month contract to develop a new system design for the next-generation Global Positioning System Control Segment. The contract was awarded by the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center.
The new control segment will revolutionize GPS command, control and mission capabilities and refocus operations for the current GPS Block II and all future GPS satellites on user effects-based operations. The system will include anti-jam capabilities, improved system security, accuracy and reliability and will be based on a modern service-oriented architecture to integrate government and industry open system standards.
"This award is an excellent opportunity for Raytheon to continue our fine performance in control systems while pursuing new areas for growth," said Michael D. Keebaugh, president of Raytheon's Intelligence and Information Systems (IIS) business. "With more than 40 years' experience delivering satellite ground command and control systems, we are uniquely qualified to deliver the right control system to enhance the Air Force, military and civil users' capabilities."
("Raytheon Selected to Design the Next GPS Control Segment for Precision Navigation and Timing," Raytheon Press Release, November 26, 2007).
November 26, 2007:
Saudi authorities release more than 1,500 reformed extremists detained over charges of embracing and spreading takfeer (branding other Muslims infidels).
According to Muhammad Al-Nujaimi, a member of the Counseling Committee and Professor of Comparative Jurisprudence at the King Fahd Security College, the extremists have undergone lengthy counseling under the guidance of the Ministry of Interior.
("Over 1,500 Saudi Extremists Freed After Repenting," Arab News, November 26, 2007).
Saudi authorities release more than 1,500 reformed extremists detained over charges of embracing and spreading takfeer (branding other Muslims infidels).
According to Muhammad Al-Nujaimi, a member of the Counseling Committee and Professor of Comparative Jurisprudence at the King Fahd Security College, the extremists have undergone lengthy counseling under the guidance of the Ministry of Interior.
("Over 1,500 Saudi Extremists Freed After Repenting," Arab News, November 26, 2007).
November 26, 2007:
- Four Palestinian terrorists are killed by the IDF in the Gaza Strip.
- The IDF notes that it targeted rocket launching squads in the northern Gaza Strip town of Beit Hanun, killing two terrorists.
- Two armed Palestinians are killed near the Erez crossing after they attempted to plant explosive devices in the area.
- Palestinian terrorists fire several rockets at the western Negev.
November 26, 2007:
Moussa Abu Marzouk (Hamas): "Resistance in all its forms and means will escalate in the West Bank and Gaza against the Zionist enemy...This is because Annapolis will expose the arbitrariness of the [political] settlement track and its destructive endeavors."
Sami Abu Zuhri (Hamas): "The Palestinian people had awaited an Arab consensus for breaking the siege...This meeting [Annapolis] will only achieve more failure and more harm to the Palestinian cause and to Arab and Palestinian rights."
("Qassam Rockets will be Deadlier to the Zionists at the Time of Aggression Against Palestinian Civilians," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, November 25, 2007).
Moussa Abu Marzouk (Hamas): "Resistance in all its forms and means will escalate in the West Bank and Gaza against the Zionist enemy...This is because Annapolis will expose the arbitrariness of the [political] settlement track and its destructive endeavors."
Sami Abu Zuhri (Hamas): "The Palestinian people had awaited an Arab consensus for breaking the siege...This meeting [Annapolis] will only achieve more failure and more harm to the Palestinian cause and to Arab and Palestinian rights."
("Qassam Rockets will be Deadlier to the Zionists at the Time of Aggression Against Palestinian Civilians," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, November 25, 2007).
November 25, 2007:
The IDF steps up efforts to locate Palestinian tunnels ahead of the Annapolis conference. The military has reportedly been utilizing bulldozers and other types of heavy earth-moving equipment to thwart attempts by Palestinian terrorists to infiltrate into Israel via subterranean passages.
An anonymous military official: "A terrorist attack emanating from a tunnel is likely to end badly, and we're doing all we can to prevent this..."
Note: The area surrounding the Erez, Karni and Kerem-Shalom terminals are considered to be likely terrorist targets.
Peter Seljan: "Tunnel warfare...can sometimes [be] linked with urban warfare, as tunnels are often found in urban area and cities, although urban warfare as a whole usually dominates any tunnel considerations. Tunnels can be used to undermine fortifications and slip into territory, while it can strengthen a defense by creating the possibility of ambush, counterattack and the ability to transfer troops from one portion of the battleground to another unseen and protected."
(Hanan Greenberg, "IDF Steps Up 'Counter-Tunnel' Activity in Preparation For Peace Summit," YnetNews, November 24, 2007; Pete Seljan, "Attack From Underneath the Ground," Miklós Zrínyi National Defense University, 2007).
The IDF steps up efforts to locate Palestinian tunnels ahead of the Annapolis conference. The military has reportedly been utilizing bulldozers and other types of heavy earth-moving equipment to thwart attempts by Palestinian terrorists to infiltrate into Israel via subterranean passages.
An anonymous military official: "A terrorist attack emanating from a tunnel is likely to end badly, and we're doing all we can to prevent this..."
Note: The area surrounding the Erez, Karni and Kerem-Shalom terminals are considered to be likely terrorist targets.
Peter Seljan: "Tunnel warfare...can sometimes [be] linked with urban warfare, as tunnels are often found in urban area and cities, although urban warfare as a whole usually dominates any tunnel considerations. Tunnels can be used to undermine fortifications and slip into territory, while it can strengthen a defense by creating the possibility of ambush, counterattack and the ability to transfer troops from one portion of the battleground to another unseen and protected."
(Hanan Greenberg, "IDF Steps Up 'Counter-Tunnel' Activity in Preparation For Peace Summit," YnetNews, November 24, 2007; Pete Seljan, "Attack From Underneath the Ground," Miklós Zrínyi National Defense University, 2007).
November 25, 2007:
- IDF forces kill Mohammed Qusah, a wanted Palestinian terrorist in Tulkarem. Qusah was head of Fatah's Tulkarem terrorist cells.
- Moushir Mansu, a senior Fatah operative with ties to Hizballah, is wounded during the operation.
- Three armed Palestinians are killed while approaching the (northern) Gaza perimeter fence.
November 25, 2007:
IDF forces kill two terrorists during an operation in the central Gaza Strip. An IDF spokeswoman notes that troops had spotted two men wearing magazine belts, one of whom was armed. The soldiers opened fire at the pair when they came close to the troops.
One of the terrorists belonged to Islamc Jihad, and the other was associated with the PRC.
("IDF Troops Kill Two Palestinian Militants in Central Gaza Raid," Reuters, November 25, 2007).
IDF forces kill two terrorists during an operation in the central Gaza Strip. An IDF spokeswoman notes that troops had spotted two men wearing magazine belts, one of whom was armed. The soldiers opened fire at the pair when they came close to the troops.
One of the terrorists belonged to Islamc Jihad, and the other was associated with the PRC.
("IDF Troops Kill Two Palestinian Militants in Central Gaza Raid," Reuters, November 25, 2007).
November 24, 2007:
Hamas official Ahmed Yousef: "They [the rockets] can be developed in a short period to create sufficient terror and fear and make the Israelis live in pain no less than what our people live through because of the repeated incursions into our villages and cities in the West Bank and Gaza."
Mark Regev, Israel's Foreign Ministry spokesman: "We take these threats very seriously..."
("Ahead of Summit, Hamas Threatens to Make Deadlier Qassams," Ha'aretz, November 24, 2007).
Hamas official Ahmed Yousef: "They [the rockets] can be developed in a short period to create sufficient terror and fear and make the Israelis live in pain no less than what our people live through because of the repeated incursions into our villages and cities in the West Bank and Gaza."
Mark Regev, Israel's Foreign Ministry spokesman: "We take these threats very seriously..."
("Ahead of Summit, Hamas Threatens to Make Deadlier Qassams," Ha'aretz, November 24, 2007).
November 24, 2007:
"Al-Qassam Brigades declared today in the early morning that they hurled three explosive devices against the Zionist special forces which attacked the village of Abbasan in the area of KhanYunis, northern Gaza Strip. At 00:15 in the early morning . Al-Qassam Brigades hold the responsibility for exploding three bombs against the Zionist special forces on Saturday. Al-Qassam Brigades declared that the operation came as a response to the continuous Zionist attacks on the Gaza Strip.
Al-Qassam Brigades confirmed in the statement of the operation that its operation came in the anniversary of the martyrdom of one of our leaders , Mahmoud Abu Al-Hannoud. Thus, Al-Qassam confirmed that resistance will continue against the Zionist enemy crimes in the Palestinian land specially in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank."
("Three Explosive Devices Hurled Against the Zionist Special Forces," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, November 24, 2007).
"Al-Qassam Brigades declared today in the early morning that they hurled three explosive devices against the Zionist special forces which attacked the village of Abbasan in the area of KhanYunis, northern Gaza Strip. At 00:15 in the early morning . Al-Qassam Brigades hold the responsibility for exploding three bombs against the Zionist special forces on Saturday. Al-Qassam Brigades declared that the operation came as a response to the continuous Zionist attacks on the Gaza Strip.
Al-Qassam Brigades confirmed in the statement of the operation that its operation came in the anniversary of the martyrdom of one of our leaders , Mahmoud Abu Al-Hannoud. Thus, Al-Qassam confirmed that resistance will continue against the Zionist enemy crimes in the Palestinian land specially in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank."
("Three Explosive Devices Hurled Against the Zionist Special Forces," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, November 24, 2007).
November 23, 2007:
Lebanese President Emile Lahoud orders the army to take over security powers in Lebanon, noting the country was in a state of emergency, hours before he was stepping down without a successor and leaving the divided country in a political vacuum.
However, according to a spokesman for Prime Minister Fouad Siniora, the cabinet had rejected the president's order for the army to assume security powers.
("Lebanese Pres. Declares State of Emergency, Entrusts Security to Army," Associated Press, November 23, 2007).
Lebanese President Emile Lahoud orders the army to take over security powers in Lebanon, noting the country was in a state of emergency, hours before he was stepping down without a successor and leaving the divided country in a political vacuum.
However, according to a spokesman for Prime Minister Fouad Siniora, the cabinet had rejected the president's order for the army to assume security powers.
("Lebanese Pres. Declares State of Emergency, Entrusts Security to Army," Associated Press, November 23, 2007).
November 23, 2007:
"The Zionist agreeing to supply Abbas militia in the West Bank with armored vehicles and hundreds of thousands of bullets, is a clear-cut steps. It is known that these weapons will not be directed to the occupation. It will be directed to the sons of the Palestinian people. This step came after Abbas give his strategic ally, 'Olmert,' the oblations against the Palestinian people!!
We consider that Abbas services in the West Bank are part of the 'Shabak' and traitors. We call our people to deal with them on this basis, and taking all the necessary security prudence.
We call the resistance to escalate its actions against the occupation to dispel enemy dreams of security and stability under the protection of his loyal friends in the Ramallah."
("Weapons to Abbas Militia is an Authorization to Fight Resistance and Zionist Gift to Ramallah Gang," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, November 23, 2007).
"The Zionist agreeing to supply Abbas militia in the West Bank with armored vehicles and hundreds of thousands of bullets, is a clear-cut steps. It is known that these weapons will not be directed to the occupation. It will be directed to the sons of the Palestinian people. This step came after Abbas give his strategic ally, 'Olmert,' the oblations against the Palestinian people!!
We consider that Abbas services in the West Bank are part of the 'Shabak' and traitors. We call our people to deal with them on this basis, and taking all the necessary security prudence.
We call the resistance to escalate its actions against the occupation to dispel enemy dreams of security and stability under the protection of his loyal friends in the Ramallah."
("Weapons to Abbas Militia is an Authorization to Fight Resistance and Zionist Gift to Ramallah Gang," Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades [Hamas] Website, November 23, 2007).
November 23, 2007:
Summary of activity in the Gaza Strip
During the past week, forces from the Golani Brigade, the Combat Engineering Corps, and the Armoured Corps, in coordination with the Air Force, operated against the terror infrastructure in the Gaza Strip in order to distance terror organizations-specifically the Hamas-from the security fence as well as to prevent rocket fire into the state of Israel.
The following is a summary of the main events this week:
On Thursday, the 15th of November of last week, the IDF carried out three attacks on a Qassam launching squad preparing rocket launchers to fire into Israel. In two of the attacks, the forces identified hitting the target.
The prevention of an infiltration into Israel by three terrorists from the northern Gaza Strip: On Monday night, an observation force identified a terrorist cell attempting to cross the security fence and infiltrate into Israel. Exchanges of fire erupted on location between the terrorist cell and the Golani force stationed at an IDF post. During the ensuing fire, the IDF force identified hitting two of the terrorists. There were no injuries to IDF forces.
On Tuesday, two explosive devices were detonated in two separate instances at IDF patrols along the security fence in the northern and central Gaza Strip. In both instance there were no injuries or damage reported by the forces.
Throughout the week there were a number of shooting incidents between IDF forces and armed Palestinian gunmen. In two separate instances that occurred during routine IDF activity in the southern Gaza Strip, forces identified a number of armed gunmen approaching them and consequentially fired at the gunmen and identified hitting them. In another incident, an IDF force identified a suspicious Palestinian man approaching the fence under the cover of darkness who threw an unidentified object over the fence. The force fired towards him and identified hitting him. Throughout the week approximately 50 mortar shells and 20 Qassams were fired into Israel from the Gaza Strip.
Summary of activity in the Judea and Samaria region
An Israeli civilian was killed by Palestinian terrorists while driving in his vehicle. The terrorists fired from a passing vehicle while driving on the main road near the community of Karne Shomeron. IDF forces immediately searched the region in order to locate the terror cell that was responsible for the killing. The IDF will continue to seek the terrorists responsible to ensure that they are brought to justice.
Three Israeli civilians and two IDF soldiers were injured by Palestinians who hurled rocks at their vehicles while driving on main roads in the Judea and Samaria region.
One Israeli civilian entered Area A and three civilians entered Area B this week. The Israeli civilians were stopped by Palestinian security personnel and were transferred for questioning by the Israeli Police. There are currently warnings of terrorist attacks with an emphasis on shooting attacks and the kidnapping of Israeli civilians. Israeli civilians may not legally enter Area A and are advised not to enter Area B due to the risk of a terror attack.
Throughout the past week IDF forces continued to operate in the Judea and Samaria region against terror infrastructure and to prevent terrorist attacks against Israeli citizens. As a result of the activity, IDF forces discovered one pipe bomb, one handgun, three Molotov Cocktails, and dozens of assault rifle bullets. In one instance, an explosive device was hurled at IDF forces while in four separate instances, Palestinian gunmen opened fire at IDF forces.
During the week, the IDF arrested 48 wanted Palestinians in the Judea and Samaria region.
("Weekly Summary of IDF Activity in Judea, Samaria and the Gaza Strip," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 22, 2007).
Summary of activity in the Gaza Strip
During the past week, forces from the Golani Brigade, the Combat Engineering Corps, and the Armoured Corps, in coordination with the Air Force, operated against the terror infrastructure in the Gaza Strip in order to distance terror organizations-specifically the Hamas-from the security fence as well as to prevent rocket fire into the state of Israel.
The following is a summary of the main events this week:
On Thursday, the 15th of November of last week, the IDF carried out three attacks on a Qassam launching squad preparing rocket launchers to fire into Israel. In two of the attacks, the forces identified hitting the target.
The prevention of an infiltration into Israel by three terrorists from the northern Gaza Strip: On Monday night, an observation force identified a terrorist cell attempting to cross the security fence and infiltrate into Israel. Exchanges of fire erupted on location between the terrorist cell and the Golani force stationed at an IDF post. During the ensuing fire, the IDF force identified hitting two of the terrorists. There were no injuries to IDF forces.
On Tuesday, two explosive devices were detonated in two separate instances at IDF patrols along the security fence in the northern and central Gaza Strip. In both instance there were no injuries or damage reported by the forces.
Throughout the week there were a number of shooting incidents between IDF forces and armed Palestinian gunmen. In two separate instances that occurred during routine IDF activity in the southern Gaza Strip, forces identified a number of armed gunmen approaching them and consequentially fired at the gunmen and identified hitting them. In another incident, an IDF force identified a suspicious Palestinian man approaching the fence under the cover of darkness who threw an unidentified object over the fence. The force fired towards him and identified hitting him. Throughout the week approximately 50 mortar shells and 20 Qassams were fired into Israel from the Gaza Strip.
Summary of activity in the Judea and Samaria region
An Israeli civilian was killed by Palestinian terrorists while driving in his vehicle. The terrorists fired from a passing vehicle while driving on the main road near the community of Karne Shomeron. IDF forces immediately searched the region in order to locate the terror cell that was responsible for the killing. The IDF will continue to seek the terrorists responsible to ensure that they are brought to justice.
Three Israeli civilians and two IDF soldiers were injured by Palestinians who hurled rocks at their vehicles while driving on main roads in the Judea and Samaria region.
One Israeli civilian entered Area A and three civilians entered Area B this week. The Israeli civilians were stopped by Palestinian security personnel and were transferred for questioning by the Israeli Police. There are currently warnings of terrorist attacks with an emphasis on shooting attacks and the kidnapping of Israeli civilians. Israeli civilians may not legally enter Area A and are advised not to enter Area B due to the risk of a terror attack.
Throughout the past week IDF forces continued to operate in the Judea and Samaria region against terror infrastructure and to prevent terrorist attacks against Israeli citizens. As a result of the activity, IDF forces discovered one pipe bomb, one handgun, three Molotov Cocktails, and dozens of assault rifle bullets. In one instance, an explosive device was hurled at IDF forces while in four separate instances, Palestinian gunmen opened fire at IDF forces.
During the week, the IDF arrested 48 wanted Palestinians in the Judea and Samaria region.
("Weekly Summary of IDF Activity in Judea, Samaria and the Gaza Strip," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 22, 2007).
November 22, 2007:
Dore Gold: "There is a serious question about the exact standing of the Bush Letter on the eve of Annapolis. Secretary of State Rice stated on November 13, 2007: 'I believe that most Israelis are ready to leave most of the - nearly all of the West Bank, just as they were ready to leave Gaza for the sake of peace.' Yet all serious public opinion polls actually show strong Israeli support for retaining strategic areas of the West Bank, like the Jordan Valley...Israelis have learned from their experience with Gaza what can happen to their most vital security interests if they are not safeguarded at the same time that far-reaching territorial concessions are made."
Full Article Here.
(Dore Gold, "Towards Annapolis: Is U.S. Policy Changingon Israel's Rights in a Peace Settlement?," JCPA, November 23, 2007).
Dore Gold: "There is a serious question about the exact standing of the Bush Letter on the eve of Annapolis. Secretary of State Rice stated on November 13, 2007: 'I believe that most Israelis are ready to leave most of the - nearly all of the West Bank, just as they were ready to leave Gaza for the sake of peace.' Yet all serious public opinion polls actually show strong Israeli support for retaining strategic areas of the West Bank, like the Jordan Valley...Israelis have learned from their experience with Gaza what can happen to their most vital security interests if they are not safeguarded at the same time that far-reaching territorial concessions are made."
Full Article Here.
(Dore Gold, "Towards Annapolis: Is U.S. Policy Changingon Israel's Rights in a Peace Settlement?," JCPA, November 23, 2007).
November 22, 2007:
"An IDF force attacked a squad of Qassam rocket launchers last Thursday. The force identified the squad while it was equipping the four rocket launchers in the northern Gaza Strip in order to launch them into Israel. The force identified hitting the four terrorists launching the missiles and the launchers during the attack."
Video Here.
("Qassam Launchers Neutralized by IDF Force," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 21, 2007).
"An IDF force attacked a squad of Qassam rocket launchers last Thursday. The force identified the squad while it was equipping the four rocket launchers in the northern Gaza Strip in order to launch them into Israel. The force identified hitting the four terrorists launching the missiles and the launchers during the attack."
Video Here.
("Qassam Launchers Neutralized by IDF Force," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 21, 2007).
November 21, 2007:
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert announces that PA security forces in Nablus are slated to receive 25 armored vehicles. Olmert's decision reverses two years of IDF opposition.
In addition to the armored vehicles, media reports indicate that Olmert has approved shipment of 1,000 rifles and 2 million rounds of ammunition for Abbas's forces.
(Yaakov Katz, "PM Approves 25 Armored Vehicles to PA," Jerusalem Post, November 21, 2007).
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert announces that PA security forces in Nablus are slated to receive 25 armored vehicles. Olmert's decision reverses two years of IDF opposition.
In addition to the armored vehicles, media reports indicate that Olmert has approved shipment of 1,000 rifles and 2 million rounds of ammunition for Abbas's forces.
(Yaakov Katz, "PM Approves 25 Armored Vehicles to PA," Jerusalem Post, November 21, 2007).
November 21, 2007:
Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Police C hief for Dubai in the UAE: "We the Arabs are charged with terrorism no matter how much we try to reassure them (the Americans)...How can an Arab accept a foreigner who walks in his streets carrying a weapon?"
("Dubai Top Cop Slams US Policies," Agence France-Presse, November 21, 2007).
Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Police C hief for Dubai in the UAE: "We the Arabs are charged with terrorism no matter how much we try to reassure them (the Americans)...How can an Arab accept a foreigner who walks in his streets carrying a weapon?"
("Dubai Top Cop Slams US Policies," Agence France-Presse, November 21, 2007).
November 21, 2007:
Nuclear Activities:
Russia agrees to provide nuclear know-how and technical expertise to Egypt to help Cairo with plans to build civilian nuclear power stations. The London-based International Institute of Strategic Studies notes that the first 1,000-megawatt reactor could be built at Dabaa on the Mediterranean in 8-10 years if foreign investment is secured.
WeaponSurvey Analysis: The concept of potentially exploiting nuclear dual-use infrastructure was advocated by Dr. 'Izat 'Abd Al-'Aziz of the Egyptian Nuclear Safety Authority. According to Dr. ‘Aziz, "Egypt has not managed to establish strategic nuclear capability because [it was] not allowed to build large nuclear reactors for electricity production. The construction of such reactors constitutes a nuclear strategy in itself, because it brings [Egypt] into the so-called nuclear fuel circle and gives us expertise in this area."
Smuggling:
Public Security Minister Avi Dichter: "Egypt understands the situation and they know that the continuation of smuggling is strengthening Hamas and weakening the PA...After Oslo and especially after the intifada, when smuggling started to be the trend, everybody thought that Egypt was going to play its role...but Egypt is doing practically nothing...Egypt could deploy to stop the smuggling within an hour. What we previously perceived as weakness or inability to act may be Egyptian policy."
(Rebecca Anna Stoil, "'Egypt Allowing Hamas to Amass Arms'," Jerusalem Post, November 18, 2007; "Report: Russia to Provide Egypt With Nuclear Expertise," Reuters, November 20, 2007; Yotam Felder, "Egypt Rethinks It’s Nuclear Program – Part 1: Scientific and Technological Capabilities Vs. International Commitments," MEMRI, no. 118, January 17, 2003.).
Nuclear Activities:
Russia agrees to provide nuclear know-how and technical expertise to Egypt to help Cairo with plans to build civilian nuclear power stations. The London-based International Institute of Strategic Studies notes that the first 1,000-megawatt reactor could be built at Dabaa on the Mediterranean in 8-10 years if foreign investment is secured.
WeaponSurvey Analysis: The concept of potentially exploiting nuclear dual-use infrastructure was advocated by Dr. 'Izat 'Abd Al-'Aziz of the Egyptian Nuclear Safety Authority. According to Dr. ‘Aziz, "Egypt has not managed to establish strategic nuclear capability because [it was] not allowed to build large nuclear reactors for electricity production. The construction of such reactors constitutes a nuclear strategy in itself, because it brings [Egypt] into the so-called nuclear fuel circle and gives us expertise in this area."
Smuggling:
Public Security Minister Avi Dichter: "Egypt understands the situation and they know that the continuation of smuggling is strengthening Hamas and weakening the PA...After Oslo and especially after the intifada, when smuggling started to be the trend, everybody thought that Egypt was going to play its role...but Egypt is doing practically nothing...Egypt could deploy to stop the smuggling within an hour. What we previously perceived as weakness or inability to act may be Egyptian policy."
(Rebecca Anna Stoil, "'Egypt Allowing Hamas to Amass Arms'," Jerusalem Post, November 18, 2007; "Report: Russia to Provide Egypt With Nuclear Expertise," Reuters, November 20, 2007; Yotam Felder, "Egypt Rethinks It’s Nuclear Program – Part 1: Scientific and Technological Capabilities Vs. International Commitments," MEMRI, no. 118, January 17, 2003.).
November 21, 2007:
RAFAEL Armament Development Authority and BAE Systems announces a joint, $36 million weapons contract with the US Navy. The two companies will supply the U.S. Navy with 62 TYPHOON naval weapons systems by the end of 2009.
The TYPHOON is based on a lightweight, highly accurate, stabilized pedestal which can accommodate a variety of weapons for a wide spectrum of missions. TYPHOON is easily integrated on new or existing platforms and integrated with other on-board systems. No deck penetration or special adjustments are required. TYPHOON may be operated independently, using an on-mount sight, or it can be slaved to an Electro-Optical Detector (EOD) or Fire Control Radar (FCR). TYPHOON provides fully independent fire control computations with no need for external systems. It is designed for autonomous operation or as an integral part of the combat system.
(Naama Sikuler, "RAFAEL Signs $25m Deal With US Navy," YnetNews, November 20, 2007; "TYPHOON," Rafael Website, [Accessed] November 21, 2007).
RAFAEL Armament Development Authority and BAE Systems announces a joint, $36 million weapons contract with the US Navy. The two companies will supply the U.S. Navy with 62 TYPHOON naval weapons systems by the end of 2009.
The TYPHOON is based on a lightweight, highly accurate, stabilized pedestal which can accommodate a variety of weapons for a wide spectrum of missions. TYPHOON is easily integrated on new or existing platforms and integrated with other on-board systems. No deck penetration or special adjustments are required. TYPHOON may be operated independently, using an on-mount sight, or it can be slaved to an Electro-Optical Detector (EOD) or Fire Control Radar (FCR). TYPHOON provides fully independent fire control computations with no need for external systems. It is designed for autonomous operation or as an integral part of the combat system.
(Naama Sikuler, "RAFAEL Signs $25m Deal With US Navy," YnetNews, November 20, 2007; "TYPHOON," Rafael Website, [Accessed] November 21, 2007).
November 20, 2007:
Saudi Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz will travel to Russia for talks that could pave the way for Riyadh to buy Russian weapons for the first time.
A diplomat notes that he expected a "framework agreement for military cooperation," which would allow Russian weapons to be sold to Saudi Arabia, to be signed during the three-day visit.
Note: Russia has carried out tests on the T-90 to determine the tank's suitability for harsh desert conditions. Moscow is also interested in selling Mi-17 helicopters.
("Saudi minister to hold defence talks in Russia: diplomat," Agence France-Presse, November 19, 2007).
Saudi Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz will travel to Russia for talks that could pave the way for Riyadh to buy Russian weapons for the first time.
A diplomat notes that he expected a "framework agreement for military cooperation," which would allow Russian weapons to be sold to Saudi Arabia, to be signed during the three-day visit.
Note: Russia has carried out tests on the T-90 to determine the tank's suitability for harsh desert conditions. Moscow is also interested in selling Mi-17 helicopters.
("Saudi minister to hold defence talks in Russia: diplomat," Agence France-Presse, November 19, 2007).
November 20, 2007:
IDF forces kill four Palestinian terrorists in two separate incidents.
IDF forces kill four Palestinian terrorists in two separate incidents.
- Three terrorists are identified by by a field unit attempting to scale the perimeter fence with a ladder (northern Gaza Strip). IDF forces kill two. According to Israel Radio, the cell was attempting to infiltrate Kibbutz Netiv Ha'Asara.
- Two Palestinians approaching the Gaza Strip perimeter fence (southern Gaza Strip) in a suspicious manner are shot and killed.
November 20, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists kill a 29-year-old Israeli civilian Ido Zoldan in a shooting attack near the West Bank community of Kedumim. The man, a resident of Kedumim, was driving toward the community of Karnei Shomron in the northern West Bank, when gunmen in a passing vehicle open fire, critically wounding him.
WeaponSurvey Analysis:
(Yuval Azoulay and Mijal Grinberg, "Israeli Civilian Killed in W. Bank Shooting Attack," Ha'aretz, November 20, 2007; Yaakov Katz, "High Alert to Prevent Terror Attack Ahead of Annapolis," Jerusalem Post, November 19, 2007; Efrat Weiss, "Israeli Killed in West Bank Terror Attack," YnetNews, November 20, 2007).
Palestinian terrorists kill a 29-year-old Israeli civilian Ido Zoldan in a shooting attack near the West Bank community of Kedumim. The man, a resident of Kedumim, was driving toward the community of Karnei Shomron in the northern West Bank, when gunmen in a passing vehicle open fire, critically wounding him.
WeaponSurvey Analysis:
- On November 14, WeaponSurvey rated the probability of an Annapolis terror spike as High.
- On November 18, we reported that the IDF was on a heightened state of alert.
- "There is a concerted effort today by Hamas and other terror groups to derail the talks...One of the ways to do that is to carry out a large-scale attack inside Israel."
(Yuval Azoulay and Mijal Grinberg, "Israeli Civilian Killed in W. Bank Shooting Attack," Ha'aretz, November 20, 2007; Yaakov Katz, "High Alert to Prevent Terror Attack Ahead of Annapolis," Jerusalem Post, November 19, 2007; Efrat Weiss, "Israeli Killed in West Bank Terror Attack," YnetNews, November 20, 2007).
November 20, 2007:
Ahmad Yousef, political advisor to former (Hamas) Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh: "We counted on the West to treat us in the same spirit we treat them rather than maintaining stereotypes and pre-determined judgments about us. But, unfortunately, we have been accused and antagonized by the West...Despite all that bad treatment and aggressiveness by the Bush administration, we do not blame the whole world for the repercussions of that wrong policy, and we still look forward to establishing positive and balanced relations with all western countries not excluding the US..."
("Hamas Seeks 'Dialogue and Understanding' with US, Senior Gaza Official Says," Ma'an News, November 19, 2007).
Ahmad Yousef, political advisor to former (Hamas) Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh: "We counted on the West to treat us in the same spirit we treat them rather than maintaining stereotypes and pre-determined judgments about us. But, unfortunately, we have been accused and antagonized by the West...Despite all that bad treatment and aggressiveness by the Bush administration, we do not blame the whole world for the repercussions of that wrong policy, and we still look forward to establishing positive and balanced relations with all western countries not excluding the US..."
("Hamas Seeks 'Dialogue and Understanding' with US, Senior Gaza Official Says," Ma'an News, November 19, 2007).
November 20, 2007:
The European Union promises to back any Israeli-Palestinian deal reached at Annapolis with aid, and urges Arab governments to help create a credible Palestinian economy.
Benita Ferrero-Waldner, EU External Relations Commissioner: "We have been contributing a lot...It is important now that other donors come forward."
Note: In 2007, aid to the Palestinians from the EU and its member states will total about 1 billion euros ($1.47 billion).
("EU Pledges to Back Any Israeli-Palestinian Peace Deal with Aid," Associated Press, November 19, 2007).
The European Union promises to back any Israeli-Palestinian deal reached at Annapolis with aid, and urges Arab governments to help create a credible Palestinian economy.
Benita Ferrero-Waldner, EU External Relations Commissioner: "We have been contributing a lot...It is important now that other donors come forward."
Note: In 2007, aid to the Palestinians from the EU and its member states will total about 1 billion euros ($1.47 billion).
("EU Pledges to Back Any Israeli-Palestinian Peace Deal with Aid," Associated Press, November 19, 2007).
November 19, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip fire a rocket that impacts in an open area south of Ashkelon.
Ashkelon residents report hearing a particularly loud explosion. One noted that the explosion "was so strong my house trembled...We are used to Qassam rockets, but far from here, in the industrial zone. This is the first time the rocket land[ed] so close. It was terrifying."
According to security sources, the firing of rockets at the Ashkelon area has recently become more accurate. Indeed, several rockets landed near strategic facilities in the city over the past few weeks, one of them causing damage.
It should be noted that the Color Red alert system is only activated in Ashkelon's southern industrial zone.
Update: A total of five rockets and 18 mortar shells struck the western Negev on Monday. One female soldier suffers from shock when a rocket strikes the city of Ashkelon and is taken to Barzilai Medical Center for treatment. Several buildings are damaged.
(Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Lands Near Neighborhood in Ashkelon," YnetNews, November 19, 2007; Yuval Azoulay and Mijal Grinberg, "Israeli Civilian Killed in W. Bank Shooting Attack," Ha'aretz, November 20, 2007).
Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip fire a rocket that impacts in an open area south of Ashkelon.
Ashkelon residents report hearing a particularly loud explosion. One noted that the explosion "was so strong my house trembled...We are used to Qassam rockets, but far from here, in the industrial zone. This is the first time the rocket land[ed] so close. It was terrifying."
According to security sources, the firing of rockets at the Ashkelon area has recently become more accurate. Indeed, several rockets landed near strategic facilities in the city over the past few weeks, one of them causing damage.
It should be noted that the Color Red alert system is only activated in Ashkelon's southern industrial zone.
Update: A total of five rockets and 18 mortar shells struck the western Negev on Monday. One female soldier suffers from shock when a rocket strikes the city of Ashkelon and is taken to Barzilai Medical Center for treatment. Several buildings are damaged.
(Shmulik Hadad, "Qassam Lands Near Neighborhood in Ashkelon," YnetNews, November 19, 2007; Yuval Azoulay and Mijal Grinberg, "Israeli Civilian Killed in W. Bank Shooting Attack," Ha'aretz, November 20, 2007).
November 19, 2007:
With the award of $36.1 million, Raytheon Company has won the majority share of U.S. Air Force competitive contracts for Paveway(TM) II laser guided bomb components for fiscal year 2007. This is the third consecutive Air Force majority share award for Raytheon, setting a benchmark for affordability and performance in the precision-guided weapons market.
The $36.1 million contract calls for Raytheon to provide the Air Force with laser guided bomb computer control and air foil groups that transform conventional bombs into precision-guided munitions.
The Air Force awarded Raytheon's Paveway II program the majority of the funding available for the fiscal year 2006 and 2007 laser guided bomb production awards, including the maximum computer control group award allowed under the competitive contract. Raytheon was also awarded the majority share of the Air Force competitive foreign military sales contracts for Paveway II in June 2007.
The U.S. Air Force awarded Raytheon the contract May 10, 2007. First developed in 1968, the evolving Paveway series of laser guided bombs revolutionized precision delivery against tactical targets. With more than 35 years of laser guided bomb experience, Raytheon has delivered more than 275,000 Paveway II precision-guided weapons to the United States and allied nations for use on more than 26 different aircraft.
("Raytheon Wins $36.1 Million U.S. Air Force Paveway Contract," Raytheon Press Release, November 19, 2007).
With the award of $36.1 million, Raytheon Company has won the majority share of U.S. Air Force competitive contracts for Paveway(TM) II laser guided bomb components for fiscal year 2007. This is the third consecutive Air Force majority share award for Raytheon, setting a benchmark for affordability and performance in the precision-guided weapons market.
The $36.1 million contract calls for Raytheon to provide the Air Force with laser guided bomb computer control and air foil groups that transform conventional bombs into precision-guided munitions.
The Air Force awarded Raytheon's Paveway II program the majority of the funding available for the fiscal year 2006 and 2007 laser guided bomb production awards, including the maximum computer control group award allowed under the competitive contract. Raytheon was also awarded the majority share of the Air Force competitive foreign military sales contracts for Paveway II in June 2007.
The U.S. Air Force awarded Raytheon the contract May 10, 2007. First developed in 1968, the evolving Paveway series of laser guided bombs revolutionized precision delivery against tactical targets. With more than 35 years of laser guided bomb experience, Raytheon has delivered more than 275,000 Paveway II precision-guided weapons to the United States and allied nations for use on more than 26 different aircraft.
("Raytheon Wins $36.1 Million U.S. Air Force Paveway Contract," Raytheon Press Release, November 19, 2007).
November 19, 2007:
The standoff between PA forces and the PFLP enters its second day in the Ein Beit El-Ma refugee camp (Nablus sector).
PFLP leader Jamil Mizhir accuses PA security forces of "trying to achieve what the Israeli forces failed to achieve when they besieged the refugee camp and attempted to arrest those leaders."
Mizhir also claims that Yahya was "obeying orders" he received from U.S. Security Coordinator Keith Dayton to implement the first stage of the Road Map.
It should be noted that 300 Palestinian security officers were recently deployed in Nablus.
("Standoff in Second Day in Ein Beit El-Ma camp; PFLP Leader: PA 'Trying to Succeed Where Israel Failed'," Ma'an News, November 19, 2007).
The standoff between PA forces and the PFLP enters its second day in the Ein Beit El-Ma refugee camp (Nablus sector).
PFLP leader Jamil Mizhir accuses PA security forces of "trying to achieve what the Israeli forces failed to achieve when they besieged the refugee camp and attempted to arrest those leaders."
Mizhir also claims that Yahya was "obeying orders" he received from U.S. Security Coordinator Keith Dayton to implement the first stage of the Road Map.
It should be noted that 300 Palestinian security officers were recently deployed in Nablus.
("Standoff in Second Day in Ein Beit El-Ma camp; PFLP Leader: PA 'Trying to Succeed Where Israel Failed'," Ma'an News, November 19, 2007).
November 19, 2007:
ITL Optronics Ltd. receives an NIS 8.5 million order for night vision and target acquisition systems from a foreign customer.
ITL predicts follow-up orders after the systems are integrated with the armed forces. ITL is supplying its NCROS system, which includes night vision, a laser marking and range finder, GPS-based navigation sensors and digital compass, communications, as well as a display screen.
(Shira Horesh, "ITL to Supply Night Vision System to Foreign Army," Globes, November 18, 2007).
ITL Optronics Ltd. receives an NIS 8.5 million order for night vision and target acquisition systems from a foreign customer.
ITL predicts follow-up orders after the systems are integrated with the armed forces. ITL is supplying its NCROS system, which includes night vision, a laser marking and range finder, GPS-based navigation sensors and digital compass, communications, as well as a display screen.
(Shira Horesh, "ITL to Supply Night Vision System to Foreign Army," Globes, November 18, 2007).
November 19, 2007:
Several people are killed and wounded when a fire breaks out on a gas pipeline in Saudi Arabia on Sunday. The blaze apparently erupted along the Haradh-Uthmaniyah gas pipeline, 30 kilometres (18 miles) from a major gas processing plant at Hawiyah, as maintenance work was being carried out. According to Saudi state oil company Aramco, the fire, which was later brought under control, "caused a number of deaths and injuries."
("Several Dead in Saudi Gas Pipeline Blaze," Agence France-Presse, November 18, 2007).
Several people are killed and wounded when a fire breaks out on a gas pipeline in Saudi Arabia on Sunday. The blaze apparently erupted along the Haradh-Uthmaniyah gas pipeline, 30 kilometres (18 miles) from a major gas processing plant at Hawiyah, as maintenance work was being carried out. According to Saudi state oil company Aramco, the fire, which was later brought under control, "caused a number of deaths and injuries."
("Several Dead in Saudi Gas Pipeline Blaze," Agence France-Presse, November 18, 2007).
November 18, 2007:
"If winning war requires understanding the terrain, winning counterinsurgency requires understanding the human terrain: the population, from its top-level political structure to the individual citizen. A thorough and current understanding of individuals and their community can help rally support of the government by allowing the government to meet the needs of the local population. Because insurgents do not identify themselves as such on sight, knowledge at the individual level is often what it takes to make such necessary distinctions."
Full Report Here.
"If winning war requires understanding the terrain, winning counterinsurgency requires understanding the human terrain: the population, from its top-level political structure to the individual citizen. A thorough and current understanding of individuals and their community can help rally support of the government by allowing the government to meet the needs of the local population. Because insurgents do not identify themselves as such on sight, knowledge at the individual level is often what it takes to make such necessary distinctions."
Full Report Here.
November 18, 2007:
The IDF is on a heightened state of alert ahead of the Annapolis summit next week, out of fear that Hamas and Islamic Jihad will try to perpetrate a large-scale terror attack. There are currently 10 specific warnings.
"There is a concerted effort today by Hamas and other terror groups to derail the talks...One of the ways to do that is to carry out a large-scale attack inside Israel."
(Yaakov Katz, "High Alert to Prevent Terror Attack Ahead of Annapolis," Jerusalem Post, November 19, 2007).
The IDF is on a heightened state of alert ahead of the Annapolis summit next week, out of fear that Hamas and Islamic Jihad will try to perpetrate a large-scale terror attack. There are currently 10 specific warnings.
"There is a concerted effort today by Hamas and other terror groups to derail the talks...One of the ways to do that is to carry out a large-scale attack inside Israel."
(Yaakov Katz, "High Alert to Prevent Terror Attack Ahead of Annapolis," Jerusalem Post, November 19, 2007).
November 17, 2007:
"The terrorism preventions for 2002 through 2005 present a more diverse threat picture. Eight of the 14 recorded terrorism preventions stemmed from right-wing extremism, and included disruptions to plotting by individuals involved with the militia, white supremacist, constitutionalist and tax protestor, and anti-abortion movements. The remaining preventions included disruptions to plotting by an anarchist in Bellingham, Washington, who sought to bomb a U.S. Coast Guard station; a plot to attack an Islamic center in Pinellis Park, Florida; and a plot by prison-originated, Muslim convert group to attack U.S. military, Jewish, and Israeli targets in the greater Los Angeles area.
In addition, three preventions involved individuals who sought to provide material support to foreign terrorist organizations, including al-Qa’ida, for attacks within the United States.
Whereas the violent global jihadist movement manifested itself primarily in terrorism preventions in the United States from 2002 through 2005, internationally the movement claimed major attacks against U.S. and Western targets that resulted in American casualties.
Most of these incidents were perpetrated by regional jihadist groups operating in primarily Muslim countries, and included attacks committed by Indonesia-based Jemaah Islamiya and al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula. The coordinated suicide bombing of London’s mass transit system by homegrown jihadists, however, brought the violent jihadist movement and the tactic of suicide bombing to a major European capital."
Full Report Here.
"The terrorism preventions for 2002 through 2005 present a more diverse threat picture. Eight of the 14 recorded terrorism preventions stemmed from right-wing extremism, and included disruptions to plotting by individuals involved with the militia, white supremacist, constitutionalist and tax protestor, and anti-abortion movements. The remaining preventions included disruptions to plotting by an anarchist in Bellingham, Washington, who sought to bomb a U.S. Coast Guard station; a plot to attack an Islamic center in Pinellis Park, Florida; and a plot by prison-originated, Muslim convert group to attack U.S. military, Jewish, and Israeli targets in the greater Los Angeles area.
In addition, three preventions involved individuals who sought to provide material support to foreign terrorist organizations, including al-Qa’ida, for attacks within the United States.
Whereas the violent global jihadist movement manifested itself primarily in terrorism preventions in the United States from 2002 through 2005, internationally the movement claimed major attacks against U.S. and Western targets that resulted in American casualties.
Most of these incidents were perpetrated by regional jihadist groups operating in primarily Muslim countries, and included attacks committed by Indonesia-based Jemaah Islamiya and al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula. The coordinated suicide bombing of London’s mass transit system by homegrown jihadists, however, brought the violent jihadist movement and the tactic of suicide bombing to a major European capital."
Full Report Here.
November 17, 2007:
The Ministry of Defence's latest high-tech communication satellite, Skynet 5B, successfully lifted-off from Kourou in French Guiana, South America. The Skynet 5B communications satellite will beam signals between UK forces deployed around the world. With its world beating antennae technology, greater power and data rates, the satellite, will provide a significant boost to operational capability for our forces, both on land and at sea.
Baroness Taylor, Minister for Defence Equipment and Support: "This is very good news for our armed forces. Once complete, the Skynet programme will bring significant improvement in our global communications systems, especially for deployed operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and at sea."
The satellite is the second of three to be launched under a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) programme worth over £3bn. Skynet 5 is the groundbreaking next generation of military satellite communications programme for the MOD.
Secure communications services are being delivered by the owner and operator, Paradigm, part of Astrium Services, with the system, including the satellites, designed and built by Astrium Satellites. Astrium Space Transportation is the prime contractor on Ariane 5.
François Auque, Chief Executive Officer of Astrium: "Skynet 5 remains a flagship programme for Astrium, showcasing our combined capabilities across all aspects of space services, satellites and space transportation. The launch of Skynet 5B will add another level to the service we provide to the UK MOD – a service already greatly enhanced following the success of Skynet 5A which is providing the next generation of advanced military satellite communications."
("Skynet Satellite Blasts into Orbit," UK Ministry of Defense, November 15, 2007).
The Ministry of Defence's latest high-tech communication satellite, Skynet 5B, successfully lifted-off from Kourou in French Guiana, South America. The Skynet 5B communications satellite will beam signals between UK forces deployed around the world. With its world beating antennae technology, greater power and data rates, the satellite, will provide a significant boost to operational capability for our forces, both on land and at sea.
Baroness Taylor, Minister for Defence Equipment and Support: "This is very good news for our armed forces. Once complete, the Skynet programme will bring significant improvement in our global communications systems, especially for deployed operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and at sea."
The satellite is the second of three to be launched under a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) programme worth over £3bn. Skynet 5 is the groundbreaking next generation of military satellite communications programme for the MOD.
Secure communications services are being delivered by the owner and operator, Paradigm, part of Astrium Services, with the system, including the satellites, designed and built by Astrium Satellites. Astrium Space Transportation is the prime contractor on Ariane 5.
François Auque, Chief Executive Officer of Astrium: "Skynet 5 remains a flagship programme for Astrium, showcasing our combined capabilities across all aspects of space services, satellites and space transportation. The launch of Skynet 5B will add another level to the service we provide to the UK MOD – a service already greatly enhanced following the success of Skynet 5A which is providing the next generation of advanced military satellite communications."
("Skynet Satellite Blasts into Orbit," UK Ministry of Defense, November 15, 2007).
November 17, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip fire a rocket that impacts in Sderot, destroying five parked cars.
Moshe Omer, spokesman for the Lachish region fire department: "We haven't before seen such damage caused by a Qassam."
(Mijal Grinberg, "Five Cars Destroyed by Qassam Rocket Attack on City of Sderot," Ha'aretz, November 17, 2007).
Palestinian terrorists in the Gaza Strip fire a rocket that impacts in Sderot, destroying five parked cars.
Moshe Omer, spokesman for the Lachish region fire department: "We haven't before seen such damage caused by a Qassam."
(Mijal Grinberg, "Five Cars Destroyed by Qassam Rocket Attack on City of Sderot," Ha'aretz, November 17, 2007).
November 17, 2007:
The Bush administration is preparing to inform Congress of plans to sell Saudi Arabia and its Gulf neighbours billions of dollars in advanced arms. The deals could be worth a combined total of $20bn, and includes a (potential) JDAM sale to Saudi Arabia.
According to retired Air Force Lt Gen Jeffrey Kohler, the sales may also include Patriot anti-missile battery upgrades for several countries, plus a new class of shore-patrolling warships for Saudi Arabia’s eastern fleet.
("US Readies Arms Sales to Saudi, Gulf Neighbours," Reuters, November 17, 2007).
The Bush administration is preparing to inform Congress of plans to sell Saudi Arabia and its Gulf neighbours billions of dollars in advanced arms. The deals could be worth a combined total of $20bn, and includes a (potential) JDAM sale to Saudi Arabia.
According to retired Air Force Lt Gen Jeffrey Kohler, the sales may also include Patriot anti-missile battery upgrades for several countries, plus a new class of shore-patrolling warships for Saudi Arabia’s eastern fleet.
("US Readies Arms Sales to Saudi, Gulf Neighbours," Reuters, November 17, 2007).
November 16, 2007:
Steven A. Hildreth: "Iran is acknowledged to have an active interest in developing, acquiring, and deploying a broad range of ballistic missiles. But there remains considerable uncertainty and disagreement over specifics. This short report seeks to provide an overview of the reported or suspected range of Iranian ballistic missile programs. Because there remains widespread public divergence over particulars, however, this report does not provide specificity to what Iran may or may not have, or is in the process of developing."
Full Report Here.
Steven A. Hildreth: "Iran is acknowledged to have an active interest in developing, acquiring, and deploying a broad range of ballistic missiles. But there remains considerable uncertainty and disagreement over specifics. This short report seeks to provide an overview of the reported or suspected range of Iranian ballistic missile programs. Because there remains widespread public divergence over particulars, however, this report does not provide specificity to what Iran may or may not have, or is in the process of developing."
Full Report Here.
November 16, 2007:
Summary of activity in the Gaza Strip:
The IDF operated in the Gaza Strip in order to prevent the terror organizations, Hamas in particular, from approaching the security fence and to thwart the launching of rockets and mortar shells into Israel.
On Friday, an IDF force identified two suspicious Palestinians crawling and apparently planting an explosive device, near the security fence in the central Gaza Strip. The force fired and identified hitting them.
On Saturday, an IDF force targeted and identified hitting a rocket launching cell and an armed launcher, after it fired a Qassam rocket into Israel.
On Wednesday, an IDF soldier was lightly wounded during an operation against terror in the northern Gaza Strip, when Palestinians opened fire at the engineering vehicle he was driving. The soldier was taken to hospital for further treatment.
Today, an IDF force targeted and identified hitting in the northern Gaza Strip a Qassam launching cell and launchers ready to fire rockets into Israel. In addition, the IDF carried out an aerial attack against two armed launchers and identified hitting them.
During the past week, Palestinians fired more than 35 mortar shells and approximately 25 Qassam rockets, most of which fell in Israel.
During IDF operations in the Gaza Strip, several suspects were taken to Israel for questioning by security forces.
Summary of activity in Judea and Samaria:
The IDF operated in Judea and Samaria to thwart the attempts of terror organizations to carry out terror attacks in the Israeli Home Front and against IDF forces.
On Friday, Following the identification of an explosive device near the security fence, south of Qalqiliya, an IDF force arrived at the scene and uncovered the remnants of a 12kg bomb, after it exploded.
On Sunday, Palestinians hurled an explosive device and two Molotov cocktails at the watchtower of the Israeli community of Migdal Oz.
On Tuesday, a special Border Police force arrested a Tanzim terror operative in Jericho.
Mamduh Fahed Mahmud Fahud was involved in shooting attacks against IDF soldiers.
In addition, two Israeli civilians were lightly wounded when Palestinians hurled rocks at their vehicles while traveling near the Israeli communities of Maccabim and Hebron.
During the past week, Palestinians hurled an explosive device and eight Molotov cocktails at Israeli civilians.
In the past week, IDF forces discovered during operations against terror a handgun, hundreds of M-16 bullets and dozens of handgun bullets, also arrested fifty one wanted Palestinians. The men were taken for questioning by security forces.
("Summary of Activity in Judea, Samaria and Gaza in the Past Week," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 16, 2007).
Summary of activity in the Gaza Strip:
The IDF operated in the Gaza Strip in order to prevent the terror organizations, Hamas in particular, from approaching the security fence and to thwart the launching of rockets and mortar shells into Israel.
On Friday, an IDF force identified two suspicious Palestinians crawling and apparently planting an explosive device, near the security fence in the central Gaza Strip. The force fired and identified hitting them.
On Saturday, an IDF force targeted and identified hitting a rocket launching cell and an armed launcher, after it fired a Qassam rocket into Israel.
On Wednesday, an IDF soldier was lightly wounded during an operation against terror in the northern Gaza Strip, when Palestinians opened fire at the engineering vehicle he was driving. The soldier was taken to hospital for further treatment.
Today, an IDF force targeted and identified hitting in the northern Gaza Strip a Qassam launching cell and launchers ready to fire rockets into Israel. In addition, the IDF carried out an aerial attack against two armed launchers and identified hitting them.
During the past week, Palestinians fired more than 35 mortar shells and approximately 25 Qassam rockets, most of which fell in Israel.
During IDF operations in the Gaza Strip, several suspects were taken to Israel for questioning by security forces.
Summary of activity in Judea and Samaria:
The IDF operated in Judea and Samaria to thwart the attempts of terror organizations to carry out terror attacks in the Israeli Home Front and against IDF forces.
On Friday, Following the identification of an explosive device near the security fence, south of Qalqiliya, an IDF force arrived at the scene and uncovered the remnants of a 12kg bomb, after it exploded.
On Sunday, Palestinians hurled an explosive device and two Molotov cocktails at the watchtower of the Israeli community of Migdal Oz.
On Tuesday, a special Border Police force arrested a Tanzim terror operative in Jericho.
Mamduh Fahed Mahmud Fahud was involved in shooting attacks against IDF soldiers.
In addition, two Israeli civilians were lightly wounded when Palestinians hurled rocks at their vehicles while traveling near the Israeli communities of Maccabim and Hebron.
During the past week, Palestinians hurled an explosive device and eight Molotov cocktails at Israeli civilians.
In the past week, IDF forces discovered during operations against terror a handgun, hundreds of M-16 bullets and dozens of handgun bullets, also arrested fifty one wanted Palestinians. The men were taken for questioning by security forces.
("Summary of Activity in Judea, Samaria and Gaza in the Past Week," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 16, 2007).
November 16, 2007:
Gaza:
Hamas...will be producing Qassam-type missiles with a range of 20-25 kms, bringing all of Ashkelon, Kiryat Gat, Netivot, Ofakim and the many kibbutzim and moshavim that surround them into the line of fire. Over a quarter of a million Israelis will be in range.
West Bank:
The Palestinian security apparatuses are not in control of the whole area...Hamas could, if it so wished and even without the use of armed force, paralyze the functioning of the Palestinian Authority.
(Ehud Ya'ari, "Just The Hard Facts," Jerusalem Post, November 16, 2007).
Gaza:
Hamas...will be producing Qassam-type missiles with a range of 20-25 kms, bringing all of Ashkelon, Kiryat Gat, Netivot, Ofakim and the many kibbutzim and moshavim that surround them into the line of fire. Over a quarter of a million Israelis will be in range.
West Bank:
The Palestinian security apparatuses are not in control of the whole area...Hamas could, if it so wished and even without the use of armed force, paralyze the functioning of the Palestinian Authority.
(Ehud Ya'ari, "Just The Hard Facts," Jerusalem Post, November 16, 2007).
November 15, 2007:
The U.S. Navy recently awarded Lockheed Martin a $2.3 million foreign military sales contract to continue concept and preliminary design work on the proposed Israeli Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), known as LCS-I. Under the latest contract, Lockheed Martin will work with the U.S. and Israeli navies to develop a technical specification and acquisition cost package for the LCS-I combat system.
During the nine-month combat system configuration phase, Lockheed Martin will examine the combat system performance of LCS-I using two different radar options: the advanced radar under development by Israeli Aircraft Industries (IAI) and Lockheed Martin’s SPY-1F radar. The team will examine the performance of these two radar options using the COMBATSS-21 combat management system integrated with the Israeli Navy Command and Control (IC2) system and develop the technical architecture, high level specifications and estimated costs to integrate COMBATSS-21 with IC2 and multiple Israeli and U.S. sensor and weapon systems including the MK 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS), Typhoon gun and Barak missile. Lockheed Martin is currently partnered with Rafael Armament Systems, Elbit Systems and Ness on LCS-I.
Lockheed Martin received an initial contract from the Israeli Navy in February 2006 to perform a feasibility study for a multi-mission LCS variant. The study, successfully completed in April 2007, resulted in the Israeli Defense Forces’ (IDF) decision to approve initial funding for two multi-mission ships currently based on an LCS-I design that would include anti-air, anti-submarine, anti-surface and anti-missile warfare missions, as well as special operations. LCS-I combines the speed, flexibility and survivability of the U.S. Navy LCS with a multi-mission combat system.
The LCS-I variant leverages the flexibility of the U.S. Navy design and the mission module space to provide multi-mission capability. LCS-I’s propulsion system is a combined diesel and gas turbine with steerable waterjets. The weapon systems aboard LCS-I include the STANDARD Missile 2, Harpoon and MK 32 torpedo tubes and selected Israeli Navy systems.
"The feasibility study successfully validated the capability of the Lockheed Martin LCS design to support the Israeli Navy’s multi-mission requirements. LCS-I will provide the Israeli Defense Force a strategic asset, fully interoperable with the U.S. Navy, to support both asymmetric warfare and broader national security roles," said Joshua Shani, vice president of Lockheed Martin Israel Operations. "Lockheed Martin will continue to work closely with the Israeli Navy, the U.S. Navy and Israeli industry during the combat system configuration phase."
("Lockheed Martin Awarded $2.3 Million Contract to Continue Work on Israeli Navy Littoral Combat Ship," Lockheed Martin Press Release, November 12, 2007).
The U.S. Navy recently awarded Lockheed Martin a $2.3 million foreign military sales contract to continue concept and preliminary design work on the proposed Israeli Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), known as LCS-I. Under the latest contract, Lockheed Martin will work with the U.S. and Israeli navies to develop a technical specification and acquisition cost package for the LCS-I combat system.
During the nine-month combat system configuration phase, Lockheed Martin will examine the combat system performance of LCS-I using two different radar options: the advanced radar under development by Israeli Aircraft Industries (IAI) and Lockheed Martin’s SPY-1F radar. The team will examine the performance of these two radar options using the COMBATSS-21 combat management system integrated with the Israeli Navy Command and Control (IC2) system and develop the technical architecture, high level specifications and estimated costs to integrate COMBATSS-21 with IC2 and multiple Israeli and U.S. sensor and weapon systems including the MK 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS), Typhoon gun and Barak missile. Lockheed Martin is currently partnered with Rafael Armament Systems, Elbit Systems and Ness on LCS-I.
Lockheed Martin received an initial contract from the Israeli Navy in February 2006 to perform a feasibility study for a multi-mission LCS variant. The study, successfully completed in April 2007, resulted in the Israeli Defense Forces’ (IDF) decision to approve initial funding for two multi-mission ships currently based on an LCS-I design that would include anti-air, anti-submarine, anti-surface and anti-missile warfare missions, as well as special operations. LCS-I combines the speed, flexibility and survivability of the U.S. Navy LCS with a multi-mission combat system.
The LCS-I variant leverages the flexibility of the U.S. Navy design and the mission module space to provide multi-mission capability. LCS-I’s propulsion system is a combined diesel and gas turbine with steerable waterjets. The weapon systems aboard LCS-I include the STANDARD Missile 2, Harpoon and MK 32 torpedo tubes and selected Israeli Navy systems.
"The feasibility study successfully validated the capability of the Lockheed Martin LCS design to support the Israeli Navy’s multi-mission requirements. LCS-I will provide the Israeli Defense Force a strategic asset, fully interoperable with the U.S. Navy, to support both asymmetric warfare and broader national security roles," said Joshua Shani, vice president of Lockheed Martin Israel Operations. "Lockheed Martin will continue to work closely with the Israeli Navy, the U.S. Navy and Israeli industry during the combat system configuration phase."
("Lockheed Martin Awarded $2.3 Million Contract to Continue Work on Israeli Navy Littoral Combat Ship," Lockheed Martin Press Release, November 12, 2007).
November 15, 2007:
Lawrence Wright: "The essence of Wahhabism is purity...They are only interested in purification - and that's what makes them so repressive."
Saudi educationalist Hassan al-Maliki: "They are teaching the students...that whoever disagrees with Wahhabism is either an infidel or a deviant - and should repent or be killed."
(Roger Hardy, "Jihad and the Saudi Petrodollar," BBC News, November 15, 2007).
Lawrence Wright: "The essence of Wahhabism is purity...They are only interested in purification - and that's what makes them so repressive."
Saudi educationalist Hassan al-Maliki: "They are teaching the students...that whoever disagrees with Wahhabism is either an infidel or a deviant - and should repent or be killed."
(Roger Hardy, "Jihad and the Saudi Petrodollar," BBC News, November 15, 2007).
November 15, 2007:
The Karkal battalion (comprised of both male and female combat soldiers) recently conducted their first winter drill.
Battalion Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Shahar Sheetrit: "I decided to push the battalion further. The level of camaraderie is very high [and] I am very proud of my combat soldiers. We began the drills on the base and now we are testing each individual company, following an all-nighter of platoon missions.
Besides for the integration of both male and female combat soldiers, this battalion is unique in its contribution and recognition in the region in which it operates: Eilat and Arabah. We serve here for the express purpose to protect the citizens of the Arabah and to thwart all attempted terror attacks."
(Dor Blech, "Karkal Battalion Holds First Winter Drill," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 15, 2007).
The Karkal battalion (comprised of both male and female combat soldiers) recently conducted their first winter drill.
Battalion Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Shahar Sheetrit: "I decided to push the battalion further. The level of camaraderie is very high [and] I am very proud of my combat soldiers. We began the drills on the base and now we are testing each individual company, following an all-nighter of platoon missions.
Besides for the integration of both male and female combat soldiers, this battalion is unique in its contribution and recognition in the region in which it operates: Eilat and Arabah. We serve here for the express purpose to protect the citizens of the Arabah and to thwart all attempted terror attacks."
(Dor Blech, "Karkal Battalion Holds First Winter Drill," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 15, 2007).
November 15, 2007:
- IDF forces fire at a vehicle carrying terrorists in northern Gaza (Beit Hanoun), killing two and injuring five.
- Palestinian terrorists fire three rockets and two mortar shells toward the western Negev town of Sderot.
- One of the rockets causes extensive damage to a house and vehicles. Two people are treated for shock.
- Another rocket hits a factory in Sha'ar Hanegev, damaging a building. Several people are treated for shock.
- Fatah claims credit for the rocket attacks, noting that a total of 10 rockets were fired.
November 15, 2007:
Dr Major Khalid Al Hamadi of the (UAE) Sharjah Police Department notes that the penalties for cyber terrorism and those who build terror-related web sites need to be toughened.
Kevin Mansell, Managing Director of the UK-based Control-F: "The UAE is a developing market in the sphere of IT forensics and even though it has less violent crimes than the UK, a demand is being created as they become more aware of the significance mobile phones play in crimes..."
("Tougher Penalties Urged to Fight Cyber Terrorism in UAE," Khaleej Times, November 15, 2007).
Dr Major Khalid Al Hamadi of the (UAE) Sharjah Police Department notes that the penalties for cyber terrorism and those who build terror-related web sites need to be toughened.
Kevin Mansell, Managing Director of the UK-based Control-F: "The UAE is a developing market in the sphere of IT forensics and even though it has less violent crimes than the UK, a demand is being created as they become more aware of the significance mobile phones play in crimes..."
("Tougher Penalties Urged to Fight Cyber Terrorism in UAE," Khaleej Times, November 15, 2007).
November 15, 2007:
Passengers at Britain's largest train stations face being searched and having their bags screened as part of a package of national security measures unveiled by PM Gordon Brown.
The PM also notes that the checks are needed alongside new concrete anti-car bomb barriers and vehicle exclusion zones outside airport terminals, shopping centers and the 250 busiest rail stations.
(Alan Travis and Patrick Wintour, "Rail Passengers Face Anti-Terror Searches," Guardian, November 15, 2007).
Passengers at Britain's largest train stations face being searched and having their bags screened as part of a package of national security measures unveiled by PM Gordon Brown.
The PM also notes that the checks are needed alongside new concrete anti-car bomb barriers and vehicle exclusion zones outside airport terminals, shopping centers and the 250 busiest rail stations.
(Alan Travis and Patrick Wintour, "Rail Passengers Face Anti-Terror Searches," Guardian, November 15, 2007).
November 14, 2007:
- Balance of Power: Military supremacy, static: Gaza - Hamas (Probability: High)
- Balance of Power: Military supremacy, dynamic: West Bank - Fatah (Moderate)
- Continuation of static Palestinian LIC, minor fluctuations (High)
- Annapolis terror spike (High)
- Gaza: Increased weapons production and smuggling (High)
- Indigenous missiles, IEDs, EFPs: Increased accuracy & yield (High)
- Continued erosion of Israeli deterence (Moderate)
- Terrorist confidence level (High)
- Counterweight: US/Israel - Fatah, training & armaments (High)
- Counterweight: Iran/Syria/Hizballah - Hamas, training & armaments (High)
- European Union: Continued support for Fatah (High)
- European Union: Dialogue with Hamas, other rejectionist groups (High)
- Shiite (Iranian) thrust - continued Saudi (Sunni\Gulf) unease (High)
- Al Qaeda, global Jihad infiltration (High)
- Hashemite Kingdom: Stability (High)
- Saudi Kingdom: Stability (High)
- Additional Israeli withdrawals, long term (High)
- Gaza: IDF offensive, heavy: [multiple-casualty event] reactionary (Moderate)
- Gaza: IDF offensive, heavy: pre-emptive (Low)
- Gaza: Post Annapolis IDF offensive (Moderate)
- West Bank: IDF offensive, heavy: pre-emptive (Low)
November 14, 2007:
Kuwait announces the formulation of a comprehensive security plan.
Interior Minister Sheikh Jaber Khaled al-Sabah: "The situation in the region is boiling, which requires setting plans to protect the homeland against any danger...Kuwait is in the heart of these situations. Violating the the sanctity of Kuwaiti territory will not be allowed..."
("Kuwait Prepares Security Plan as Region 'Boils'," Reuters, November 14, 2007).
Kuwait announces the formulation of a comprehensive security plan.
Interior Minister Sheikh Jaber Khaled al-Sabah: "The situation in the region is boiling, which requires setting plans to protect the homeland against any danger...Kuwait is in the heart of these situations. Violating the the sanctity of Kuwaiti territory will not be allowed..."
("Kuwait Prepares Security Plan as Region 'Boils'," Reuters, November 14, 2007).
November 14, 2007:
Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (IAI) wins a $41 million order to provide Ehud Air Combat Maneuvering Instrumentation (ACMI) systems for training and debriefing to two Asian countries. (Note: BVR Systems Ltd. is a subcontractor).
One country purchased the latest version of the Ehud Air Defense Training System for $25 million, which provides a close connection between fighter aircraft training in suppression of enemy air defense (SEAD) missions and anti-aircraft batteries practicing interception.
The second country currently utilizes an earlier version of the Ehud, and has purchased an upgrade, facilitating the network training of aircraft. (Note: Full compatibility with previous generation systems will be maintained).
The Ehud is operated by the air forces of Israel, Germany, France, Italy, Thailand, Belgium, Portugal, the Netherlands, the UK, and the NATO Flight School.
(Yael Gross-Englander, "IAI Wins $41m Asian Contracts," Globes, November 14, 2007).
Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (IAI) wins a $41 million order to provide Ehud Air Combat Maneuvering Instrumentation (ACMI) systems for training and debriefing to two Asian countries. (Note: BVR Systems Ltd. is a subcontractor).
One country purchased the latest version of the Ehud Air Defense Training System for $25 million, which provides a close connection between fighter aircraft training in suppression of enemy air defense (SEAD) missions and anti-aircraft batteries practicing interception.
The second country currently utilizes an earlier version of the Ehud, and has purchased an upgrade, facilitating the network training of aircraft. (Note: Full compatibility with previous generation systems will be maintained).
The Ehud is operated by the air forces of Israel, Germany, France, Italy, Thailand, Belgium, Portugal, the Netherlands, the UK, and the NATO Flight School.
(Yael Gross-Englander, "IAI Wins $41m Asian Contracts," Globes, November 14, 2007).
November 14, 2007:
- An IDF soldier is lightly wounded by Palestinian fire near the Erez Crossing (along the Gaza Strip border).
- Palestinian terrorists fire two rockets that impact in the western Negev town of Sderot.
November 14, 2007:
Raytheon Company has signed a contract with the U.K. Home Office to develop and implement the nation's 'e-Borders' project, an advanced border control and security program.
The program will collect and analyze passenger and crew data, provided by carriers (air, sea and rail), of all journeys to and from the U.K. in advance of their travel. It will support an intelligence-led approach to operating border controls, by identifying those involved in abuse of U.K. immigration laws, serious and organized crime and terrorism.
The e-Borders program will build upon the country's current pilot program for border control and expand it into a fully flexible, scalable and robust e- Borders capability within two years.
"International growth and border security are major growth areas for Raytheon, and we believe today's announcement is testament to our strength and ability to grow in these markets," said Mike Keebaugh, president of Raytheon's Intelligence and Information Systems business. "We look forward to working closely with the Home Office to deliver an integrated, secure border for the 21st century."
("Raytheon Awarded Contract with U.K. Home Office for e-Borders Project," Raytheon Press Release, November 14, 2007).
Raytheon Company has signed a contract with the U.K. Home Office to develop and implement the nation's 'e-Borders' project, an advanced border control and security program.
The program will collect and analyze passenger and crew data, provided by carriers (air, sea and rail), of all journeys to and from the U.K. in advance of their travel. It will support an intelligence-led approach to operating border controls, by identifying those involved in abuse of U.K. immigration laws, serious and organized crime and terrorism.
The e-Borders program will build upon the country's current pilot program for border control and expand it into a fully flexible, scalable and robust e- Borders capability within two years.
"International growth and border security are major growth areas for Raytheon, and we believe today's announcement is testament to our strength and ability to grow in these markets," said Mike Keebaugh, president of Raytheon's Intelligence and Information Systems business. "We look forward to working closely with the Home Office to deliver an integrated, secure border for the 21st century."
("Raytheon Awarded Contract with U.K. Home Office for e-Borders Project," Raytheon Press Release, November 14, 2007).
November 13, 2007:
Elbit Systems Ltd. receives a new UAV order for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The order, valued at approximately $30 million, includes the development, manufacture and supply of new and improved UAV systems, as well as the upgrade of existing UAV systems, designed to enhance and expand the IDF's existing UAV platform. Development and supply is scheduled to take place over a period that exceeds three years.
The Hermes® 450 is an original development of Elbit Systems, and the IDF has been operating UAVs based on this platform for several years. During the recent war in Lebanon its UAVs flew many combat sorties proving their efficiency in performing their missions by providing effective operational results and achieving their goal - the supply of necessary, visual intelligence to the ground forces.
The Hermes 450 UAVs are operated by various military forces worldwide and are deployed in battlefields such as Iraq and Afghanistan to the full satisfaction of the customers. Haim Kellerman, Corporate Vice President and General Manager of Elbit Systems UAV Division said: "We are proud to receive IDF's renewed order, attesting to the long-standing quality and operational abilities of the Hermes 450. We regard the IDF as our central customer and the cornerstone of our increased success among the Hermes 450’s users worldwide. The accumulated operational experience and feedback we receive from the IDF are important elements in the success of the Hermes 450 around the globe. The Hermes 450 unique features constitute a solid basis for the entire Hermes UAV family. I have no doubt that the Hermes 900, which will undergo flight tests in the coming months, will enjoy similar success."
Elbit Systems’ UAV family has accumulated tens of thousands of operational flight hours in Israel and other countries worldwide. The various UAVs designed to meet a range of requirement include the Hermes 1500, Hermes 450 – chosen to lead the British Armed Forces prestigious WATCHKEEPER program, Hermes 900 - incorporating all features of Hermes 450 and more - longer flight duration, larger payload configurations and ability to operate under extreme weather conditions, and Hermes 180 – the smallest UAV in the Hermes family.
("Elbit Systems To Supply UAV Systems To The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Valued At Approximately $30 Million," Elbit Press Release, November 12, 2007).
Elbit Systems Ltd. receives a new UAV order for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The order, valued at approximately $30 million, includes the development, manufacture and supply of new and improved UAV systems, as well as the upgrade of existing UAV systems, designed to enhance and expand the IDF's existing UAV platform. Development and supply is scheduled to take place over a period that exceeds three years.
The Hermes® 450 is an original development of Elbit Systems, and the IDF has been operating UAVs based on this platform for several years. During the recent war in Lebanon its UAVs flew many combat sorties proving their efficiency in performing their missions by providing effective operational results and achieving their goal - the supply of necessary, visual intelligence to the ground forces.
The Hermes 450 UAVs are operated by various military forces worldwide and are deployed in battlefields such as Iraq and Afghanistan to the full satisfaction of the customers. Haim Kellerman, Corporate Vice President and General Manager of Elbit Systems UAV Division said: "We are proud to receive IDF's renewed order, attesting to the long-standing quality and operational abilities of the Hermes 450. We regard the IDF as our central customer and the cornerstone of our increased success among the Hermes 450’s users worldwide. The accumulated operational experience and feedback we receive from the IDF are important elements in the success of the Hermes 450 around the globe. The Hermes 450 unique features constitute a solid basis for the entire Hermes UAV family. I have no doubt that the Hermes 900, which will undergo flight tests in the coming months, will enjoy similar success."
Elbit Systems’ UAV family has accumulated tens of thousands of operational flight hours in Israel and other countries worldwide. The various UAVs designed to meet a range of requirement include the Hermes 1500, Hermes 450 – chosen to lead the British Armed Forces prestigious WATCHKEEPER program, Hermes 900 - incorporating all features of Hermes 450 and more - longer flight duration, larger payload configurations and ability to operate under extreme weather conditions, and Hermes 180 – the smallest UAV in the Hermes family.
("Elbit Systems To Supply UAV Systems To The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Valued At Approximately $30 Million," Elbit Press Release, November 12, 2007).
November 13, 2007:
- Three rockets and four mortar shells are fired from northern Gaza towards Sderot and the western Negev.
- Simultaneously, large parts of Ashkelon suffer a blackout.
- The Israel Electric Company announces the blackouts are caused by a short-circuit in one of Ashkelon's high voltage lines.
- The High Court of Justice grants the state a further extension to complete a plan for the fortification of schools in Sderot, "in light of the improvement in protection of schools since the court's prior verdict on the issue and the state's intention to carry out further improvements during the interim period leading to the full completion of the plan providing for protection of all schools in Sderot and the Gaza vicinity communities."
November 13, 2007:
A woman who previously worked as an FBI agent and a CIA analyst is expected to plead guilty to charges involving her disclosure of information to individuals outside the government.
The woman, apparently from Lebanon, entered the United States on a student visa and obtained citizenship via marriage. While officials say there is no evidence of actual espionage and no evidence that she was working as a spy, she is accused of passing information to Hizballah sympathizers.
("Former FBI Agent Accused Of Leaking Info," CBS News, November 13, 2007).
A woman who previously worked as an FBI agent and a CIA analyst is expected to plead guilty to charges involving her disclosure of information to individuals outside the government.
The woman, apparently from Lebanon, entered the United States on a student visa and obtained citizenship via marriage. While officials say there is no evidence of actual espionage and no evidence that she was working as a spy, she is accused of passing information to Hizballah sympathizers.
("Former FBI Agent Accused Of Leaking Info," CBS News, November 13, 2007).
November 13, 2007:
The IDF is slated to conduct a major exercise (next week) simulating a widespread increase in Palestinian terrorism.
The exercise simulates a scenario in which terrorist organizations launch a massive wave of attacks (along with demonstrations) prior to the Annapolis conference in order to ensure its failure. The exercise also assumes the the IDF will have limited forces with which to respond, due to ongoing tensions along the Syrian and Gazan borders.
(Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "Major IDF Drill to Simulate Large-Scale W. Bank Clashes," Ha'aretz, November 13, 2007).
The IDF is slated to conduct a major exercise (next week) simulating a widespread increase in Palestinian terrorism.
The exercise simulates a scenario in which terrorist organizations launch a massive wave of attacks (along with demonstrations) prior to the Annapolis conference in order to ensure its failure. The exercise also assumes the the IDF will have limited forces with which to respond, due to ongoing tensions along the Syrian and Gazan borders.
(Amos Harel and Avi Issacharoff, "Major IDF Drill to Simulate Large-Scale W. Bank Clashes," Ha'aretz, November 13, 2007).
November 12, 2007:
Raytheon Company has acquired the robotics technologies and capabilities of Sarcos. Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Sarcos researches and develops technologies in the advanced field of micro-electro mechanical systems. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
"With Sarcos we are gaining world-renowned research and development capabilities in robotics technology, providing us with new capabilities to expand our position in this developing growth area," said Dan Smith, president of Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems.
"We look forward to being part of the IDS team," said Dr. Stephen Jacobsen, president of Sarcos. "Joining with Raytheon will help to move our technology from research and development to execution."
Integrated Defense Systems is Raytheon's leader in Joint Battlespace Integration providing affordable, integrated solutions to a broad international and domestic customer base, including the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, the U.S. Armed Forces and the Department of Homeland Security.
("Raytheon Purchases Sarcos' Robotics Technologies," Raytheon Press Release, November 12, 2007).
Raytheon Company has acquired the robotics technologies and capabilities of Sarcos. Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Sarcos researches and develops technologies in the advanced field of micro-electro mechanical systems. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
"With Sarcos we are gaining world-renowned research and development capabilities in robotics technology, providing us with new capabilities to expand our position in this developing growth area," said Dan Smith, president of Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems.
"We look forward to being part of the IDS team," said Dr. Stephen Jacobsen, president of Sarcos. "Joining with Raytheon will help to move our technology from research and development to execution."
Integrated Defense Systems is Raytheon's leader in Joint Battlespace Integration providing affordable, integrated solutions to a broad international and domestic customer base, including the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, the U.S. Armed Forces and the Department of Homeland Security.
("Raytheon Purchases Sarcos' Robotics Technologies," Raytheon Press Release, November 12, 2007).
November 12, 2007:
Hamas security forces open fire during a mass memorial service for Yasser Arafat. 6 people are killed and 85 wounded during the ensuing violence.
More than 250,000 Fatah supporters join the rally in a major square of Gaza City. As shots are fired, protesters scramble for cover and masked Hamas security men run through the city streets firing weapons. Bodyguards of senior Fatah officials are seen covering their bosses and dragging them out of the rally grounds.
Two hours later, hundreds of Hamas gunmen gain control of the protest site and arrest protestors. Sporadic gunfire is heard.
("At Least 6 Dead as Hamas, Fatah Clash at Arafat Rally," Reuters & Associated Press & Ha'aretz, November 12, 2007).
Hamas security forces open fire during a mass memorial service for Yasser Arafat. 6 people are killed and 85 wounded during the ensuing violence.
More than 250,000 Fatah supporters join the rally in a major square of Gaza City. As shots are fired, protesters scramble for cover and masked Hamas security men run through the city streets firing weapons. Bodyguards of senior Fatah officials are seen covering their bosses and dragging them out of the rally grounds.
Two hours later, hundreds of Hamas gunmen gain control of the protest site and arrest protestors. Sporadic gunfire is heard.
("At Least 6 Dead as Hamas, Fatah Clash at Arafat Rally," Reuters & Associated Press & Ha'aretz, November 12, 2007).
November 12, 2007:
Saudi Arabia is slated to purchase 150 Russian attack and transport helicopters for $2.2 billion. Under the deal, Russia will supply Mi-8 and Mi-17 transports and Mi-35 attack helicopters, plus spare parts, weapons and related services.
Ruslan Pukhov, an analyst with the Russian Center for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies: "In big arms deals such as this one, buyers seek not only new weapons, but the political support of a seller...The deal demonstrates that for the Saudis, Russia’s foreign policy approaches, especially in the Middle East, are more important than that of France."
("Saudis to Buy 150 Russian Helicopters," Gulf in the Media, November 11, 2007).
Saudi Arabia is slated to purchase 150 Russian attack and transport helicopters for $2.2 billion. Under the deal, Russia will supply Mi-8 and Mi-17 transports and Mi-35 attack helicopters, plus spare parts, weapons and related services.
Ruslan Pukhov, an analyst with the Russian Center for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies: "In big arms deals such as this one, buyers seek not only new weapons, but the political support of a seller...The deal demonstrates that for the Saudis, Russia’s foreign policy approaches, especially in the Middle East, are more important than that of France."
("Saudis to Buy 150 Russian Helicopters," Gulf in the Media, November 11, 2007).
November 12, 2007:
MK Yuval Steinitz (Likud): "Egypt's de facto behavior in the field supports Hamas...As long as Egypt is not required to pay a real price for this behavior, weapons and financial aid will continue to flow into the hands of Hamas and other terrorist groups in Gaza...Egypt's claim that it is doing its best to end this situation by uncovering smuggling tunnels into Gaza is simply an insult to the intelligence...It is almost ridiculous for the Egyptians to focus on finding the tunnels, since it would be much easier for them to intercept the smugglers before they get anywhere near the border.
"All they have to do is to erect a number of roadblocks along the very few roads that run from mainland Egypt to the Gaza region, in order to intercept heavily loaded trucks carrying hundreds of rifles and missiles from reaching the border...Alternatively, they can declare the border area a closed military zone, with a depth of two to three miles into the interior of Sinai, and prevent any movement in it."
(Sheera Claire Frenkel, "Steinitz to US Senate: Egypt 'Letting' Hamas Build an Army," Jerusalem Post, November 11, 2007).
MK Yuval Steinitz (Likud): "Egypt's de facto behavior in the field supports Hamas...As long as Egypt is not required to pay a real price for this behavior, weapons and financial aid will continue to flow into the hands of Hamas and other terrorist groups in Gaza...Egypt's claim that it is doing its best to end this situation by uncovering smuggling tunnels into Gaza is simply an insult to the intelligence...It is almost ridiculous for the Egyptians to focus on finding the tunnels, since it would be much easier for them to intercept the smugglers before they get anywhere near the border.
"All they have to do is to erect a number of roadblocks along the very few roads that run from mainland Egypt to the Gaza region, in order to intercept heavily loaded trucks carrying hundreds of rifles and missiles from reaching the border...Alternatively, they can declare the border area a closed military zone, with a depth of two to three miles into the interior of Sinai, and prevent any movement in it."
(Sheera Claire Frenkel, "Steinitz to US Senate: Egypt 'Letting' Hamas Build an Army," Jerusalem Post, November 11, 2007).
November 11, 2007:
Palestinian terrorists fire a rocket that impacts in a western Negev kibbutz. Six cows are killed in the attack.
("Kassam Hit Causes Fire in Kibbutz Dairy; 6 Cows Killed," Jerusalem Post, November 9, 2007).
Palestinian terrorists fire a rocket that impacts in a western Negev kibbutz. Six cows are killed in the attack.
("Kassam Hit Causes Fire in Kibbutz Dairy; 6 Cows Killed," Jerusalem Post, November 9, 2007).
November 11, 2007:
During the past week, IDF forces continued operating against terrorist infrastructures in Judea, Samaria and the Gaza Strip.
Summary of activity in the Gaza Strip:
The IDF operated in the southern Gaza Strip in order to prevent the terror organizations, Hamas in particular, from approaching the security fence and to thwart the launching of rockets and mortar shells into Israel.
On Friday, the IDF carried out an aerial attack against a Hamas post in the southern Gaza Strip. The attack followed numerous mortar shell launchings at Israeli communities in the Western Negev, Nativ Ha'asara in particular.
During the week IDF forces carried out, in three different incidents, attacks against rocket launching cells and armed launchers that were identified on different launching sites in the northern Gaza Strip. The forces identified a hit in all incidents.
On Tuesday, forces discovered two explosive devices that Palestinians planted near the security fence in the southern Gaza Strip. The explosives were intended to be discharged against IDF soldiers, and were detonated in a controlled environment by an IDF force.
On Tuesday, an IDF soldier, Staff Sergeant Yariv Amitai, was killed in a military vehicle accident during an IDF routine patrol near the security fence between Israel and the Gaza Strip
Dozens of Palestinians were taken for initial questioning in Israel by security forces.
During the past week, over 25 mortar shells and approximately 25 Qassam rockets were fired at Israeli communities in the western Negev and at soldiers operating within the Gaza Strip causing damage, power failures and a local fire.
Summary of activity in Judea and Samaria:
During the past week IDF forces operated in the Judea and Samaria region in order to thwart the extensive terrorist activity and to prevent terror attacks emanating from this region into Israel.
On Sunday, IDF forces discovered 2 pipe bombs near Beit Ummar, south of Bethlehem. The explosives were discovered during a routine search in an area from which Palestinians hurled two Molotov cocktails at passing Israeli vehicles shortly beforehand. The pipe bombs were detonated in a controlled environment.
On Monday, a 17 year old Palestinians female arrived at an IDF post near the neighborhood of Tel Rumeda in Hebron and pulled out a knife in an attempt to stab the soldiers at the post. The youth was taken for questioning by security forces.
On Wednesday, during IDF activity in Kufer Dan, northwest of Jenin, Palestinians hurled two explosive devices and opened fire several times at the force. The force identified a Palestinian gunman, fired at him and identified hitting him.
Two pipe bombs, bomb making materials, an M16 rifle, IDF equipment and ammunition were discovered during this week's IDF activity in Judea and Samaria.
IDF forces arrested 76 Palestinians who were all taken for questioning by security forces.
("Summary of IDF Activity Against Terror in Judea, Samaria and the Gaza Strip in the Past Week," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 10, 2007).
During the past week, IDF forces continued operating against terrorist infrastructures in Judea, Samaria and the Gaza Strip.
Summary of activity in the Gaza Strip:
The IDF operated in the southern Gaza Strip in order to prevent the terror organizations, Hamas in particular, from approaching the security fence and to thwart the launching of rockets and mortar shells into Israel.
On Friday, the IDF carried out an aerial attack against a Hamas post in the southern Gaza Strip. The attack followed numerous mortar shell launchings at Israeli communities in the Western Negev, Nativ Ha'asara in particular.
During the week IDF forces carried out, in three different incidents, attacks against rocket launching cells and armed launchers that were identified on different launching sites in the northern Gaza Strip. The forces identified a hit in all incidents.
On Tuesday, forces discovered two explosive devices that Palestinians planted near the security fence in the southern Gaza Strip. The explosives were intended to be discharged against IDF soldiers, and were detonated in a controlled environment by an IDF force.
On Tuesday, an IDF soldier, Staff Sergeant Yariv Amitai, was killed in a military vehicle accident during an IDF routine patrol near the security fence between Israel and the Gaza Strip
Dozens of Palestinians were taken for initial questioning in Israel by security forces.
During the past week, over 25 mortar shells and approximately 25 Qassam rockets were fired at Israeli communities in the western Negev and at soldiers operating within the Gaza Strip causing damage, power failures and a local fire.
Summary of activity in Judea and Samaria:
During the past week IDF forces operated in the Judea and Samaria region in order to thwart the extensive terrorist activity and to prevent terror attacks emanating from this region into Israel.
On Sunday, IDF forces discovered 2 pipe bombs near Beit Ummar, south of Bethlehem. The explosives were discovered during a routine search in an area from which Palestinians hurled two Molotov cocktails at passing Israeli vehicles shortly beforehand. The pipe bombs were detonated in a controlled environment.
On Monday, a 17 year old Palestinians female arrived at an IDF post near the neighborhood of Tel Rumeda in Hebron and pulled out a knife in an attempt to stab the soldiers at the post. The youth was taken for questioning by security forces.
On Wednesday, during IDF activity in Kufer Dan, northwest of Jenin, Palestinians hurled two explosive devices and opened fire several times at the force. The force identified a Palestinian gunman, fired at him and identified hitting him.
Two pipe bombs, bomb making materials, an M16 rifle, IDF equipment and ammunition were discovered during this week's IDF activity in Judea and Samaria.
IDF forces arrested 76 Palestinians who were all taken for questioning by security forces.
("Summary of IDF Activity Against Terror in Judea, Samaria and the Gaza Strip in the Past Week," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 10, 2007).
November 10, 2007:
Raytheon Company is being awarded two contracts totaling $241.8 million to overhaul and upgrade 34 Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems for the U.S. Navy and one system for the Royal Australian Navy. Raytheon will also build 12 Land-Based Phalanx Weapon Systems for the U.S. Army and provide associated hardware to all three services under the agreements.
Phalanx is a rapid-fire, computer-controlled radar and 20 mm gun system that automatically acquires, tracks and destroys enemy threats. More than 850 sea-based systems have been built and deployed in the navies of 25 nations.
"These systems represent our commitment to provide vital protection against threats ranging from supersonic anti-ship missiles and small, fast surface craft at sea to rockets, artillery and mortars in the land-based configuration," said Kevin Peppe, Raytheon's CIWS systems director.
"Phalanx is a critical element in the ship self-defense role," said Peppe. "LPWS has the proven capability to defeat in-coming threats while they are still airborne, providing unequalled protection to forces and civilians on the ground."
("Raytheon, U.S. Navy Sign $241.8 Million Phalanx Close-In Weapon System Orders," Raytheon Press Release, November 9, 2007).
Raytheon Company is being awarded two contracts totaling $241.8 million to overhaul and upgrade 34 Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems for the U.S. Navy and one system for the Royal Australian Navy. Raytheon will also build 12 Land-Based Phalanx Weapon Systems for the U.S. Army and provide associated hardware to all three services under the agreements.
Phalanx is a rapid-fire, computer-controlled radar and 20 mm gun system that automatically acquires, tracks and destroys enemy threats. More than 850 sea-based systems have been built and deployed in the navies of 25 nations.
"These systems represent our commitment to provide vital protection against threats ranging from supersonic anti-ship missiles and small, fast surface craft at sea to rockets, artillery and mortars in the land-based configuration," said Kevin Peppe, Raytheon's CIWS systems director.
"Phalanx is a critical element in the ship self-defense role," said Peppe. "LPWS has the proven capability to defeat in-coming threats while they are still airborne, providing unequalled protection to forces and civilians on the ground."
("Raytheon, U.S. Navy Sign $241.8 Million Phalanx Close-In Weapon System Orders," Raytheon Press Release, November 9, 2007).
November 10, 2007:
PA Information Minister Riad Malki denies that Palestinian negotiators had agreed ahead of the planned Annapolis summit to disarm and disband all terror groups operating in the PA.
("Malki: PA Won't Disband Terror Groups," Jerusalem Post, November 10, 2007).
PA Information Minister Riad Malki denies that Palestinian negotiators had agreed ahead of the planned Annapolis summit to disarm and disband all terror groups operating in the PA.
("Malki: PA Won't Disband Terror Groups," Jerusalem Post, November 10, 2007).
November 10, 2007:
Palestinian police announce that 40 homemade bombs were seized in Nablus. However, Israeli defense officials note that PA police had confiscated only seven pipe bombs.
("Defense officials downplay Nablus raid," Jerusalem Post, November 10, 2007).
Palestinian police announce that 40 homemade bombs were seized in Nablus. However, Israeli defense officials note that PA police had confiscated only seven pipe bombs.
("Defense officials downplay Nablus raid," Jerusalem Post, November 10, 2007).
November 10, 2007:
- IDF forces target a car carrying Islamic Jihad terrorists near the Jabalya refugee camp in the northern Gaza Strip.
- The IAF targets a rocket launcher ready to fire.
- IDF forces shoot and kill two Palestinians approaching the Gaza Strip perimeter fence. The two were in the process of planting an explosive device.
November 9, 2007:
Caitlin Talmadge: Can the United States deter a nuclear terrorist attack? Two conventional wisdoms prevail on this question. One contends that Cold War ideas about deterrence are utterly irrelevant to coping with an enemy such as al Qaeda, whose members are unafraid of earthly punishments and whose leaders lack a return address at which to direct retaliation. The other suggests, more optimistically, that nuclear forensics make it possible for the United States to determine the origin of nuclear bombs and thus credibly threaten retaliation against any state that transfers nuclear material, weapons, or knowledge to terrorists.
Following this logic, the United States need only combine modern nuclear physics with concepts of deterrence honed in the Cold War to solve its most worrisome present-day threat.
Full Article Here.
(Caitlin Talmadge, "Deterring a Nuclear 9/11," The Center for Strategic and International Studies and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, The Washington Quarterly, Spring 2007, 30:2 pp. 21–34).
Caitlin Talmadge: Can the United States deter a nuclear terrorist attack? Two conventional wisdoms prevail on this question. One contends that Cold War ideas about deterrence are utterly irrelevant to coping with an enemy such as al Qaeda, whose members are unafraid of earthly punishments and whose leaders lack a return address at which to direct retaliation. The other suggests, more optimistically, that nuclear forensics make it possible for the United States to determine the origin of nuclear bombs and thus credibly threaten retaliation against any state that transfers nuclear material, weapons, or knowledge to terrorists.
Following this logic, the United States need only combine modern nuclear physics with concepts of deterrence honed in the Cold War to solve its most worrisome present-day threat.
Full Article Here.
(Caitlin Talmadge, "Deterring a Nuclear 9/11," The Center for Strategic and International Studies and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, The Washington Quarterly, Spring 2007, 30:2 pp. 21–34).
November 9, 2007:
The U.S. plans to rush aid to the West Bank city of Nablus before the start of the upcoming Annapolis summit. According to officials, the projects are will rebuild schools, clinics and court buildings.
U.S. Consul in Jerusalem, Jacob Walles: "The U.S. is encouraged by steps that the Palestinian security forces are taking in Nablus to restore law and order, and continued progress there will create the environment in which we can launch a number of new development projects..."
Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri opines that the expected cash infusion is part of an "American-Zionist project to back up the Palestinian president in confronting Hamas."
WeaponSurvey Analysis:
The U.S. plans to rush aid to the West Bank city of Nablus before the start of the upcoming Annapolis summit. According to officials, the projects are will rebuild schools, clinics and court buildings.
U.S. Consul in Jerusalem, Jacob Walles: "The U.S. is encouraged by steps that the Palestinian security forces are taking in Nablus to restore law and order, and continued progress there will create the environment in which we can launch a number of new development projects..."
Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri opines that the expected cash infusion is part of an "American-Zionist project to back up the Palestinian president in confronting Hamas."
WeaponSurvey Analysis:
- An extensive IDF Gaza operation to counter Hamas will probably not occur until after Annapolis.
- A terrorist attack that causes a particularly large number of casualties (civilian or military) may prompt a large-scale operation in the Strip -- even before the summit.
- A (limited) green light from the U.S. for an eventual Gaza operation will be granted at some point. The attached price tag: the establishment of a Palestinian state with "interim" borders.
November 9, 2007:
Clashes between Yemeni tribesmen and security guards protecting a Ukrainian oil company leave 16 people dead in Shabwa the province, east of the capital in a dispute over jobs.
Provincial Governor Mohammed Ali Rwishan: "The clashes that occurred this morning in front of the Ukrainian oil firm... saw the death of 16 people, which included 10 soldiers and six tribesmen..."
A security source noted the men who fought the soldiers were from the Belharith tribe.
("16 Dead in Clashes Around Yemen Oilfield," Agence France-Presse, November 9, 2007).
Clashes between Yemeni tribesmen and security guards protecting a Ukrainian oil company leave 16 people dead in Shabwa the province, east of the capital in a dispute over jobs.
Provincial Governor Mohammed Ali Rwishan: "The clashes that occurred this morning in front of the Ukrainian oil firm... saw the death of 16 people, which included 10 soldiers and six tribesmen..."
A security source noted the men who fought the soldiers were from the Belharith tribe.
("16 Dead in Clashes Around Yemen Oilfield," Agence France-Presse, November 9, 2007).
November 9, 2007:
Raytheon Company delivers its 3,000th Joint Standoff Weapon to the U.S. Navy.
JSOW is a family of affordable, precision-guided, air-to-ground glide weapons capable of striking targets in sensitive and well-defended areas. More than 400 JSOWs have been used in combat operations, including Operation Iraqi Freedom.
"JSOW's battle-proven capability provides us with an unbeatable combination of affordability, lethality, survivability and standoff range," said Captain Mat Winter, the Navy's JSOW program manager. "The delivery of the 3,000th JSOW is a noteworthy accomplishment for this critical air-to-ground system because it demonstrates our trust in the reliability of the product."
JSOW contains next-generation technology that allows stealth engagement of high-value targets in heavily defended areas. Like its predecessors, the 3,000th JSOW has a modular design, allowing the weapon to deliver a variety of payloads.
The JSOW family uses a common and modular weapon body capable of carrying various payloads. It employs an integrated GPS/inertial navigation system that guides the weapon to the target and has a standoff range of approximately 70 nautical miles, allowing delivery from well outside the lethal range of most enemy air defenses. The JSOW-A variant dispenses combined-effect bomblets for use against soft and area targets.
The JSOW-C variant incorporates an imaging infrared seeker for high precision and uses a multi-stage warhead with both a blast fragmentation and hard target penetration capability for use against point targets. JSOW C-1, which recently entered the system design and development phase, has a maritime surface-attack capability and incorporates a data link that allows JSOW to respond to changing battlefield conditions.
("Raytheon Delivers 3,000th Joint Standoff Weapon to the U.S. Navy," Raytheon Press Release, November 9, 2007).
Raytheon Company delivers its 3,000th Joint Standoff Weapon to the U.S. Navy.
JSOW is a family of affordable, precision-guided, air-to-ground glide weapons capable of striking targets in sensitive and well-defended areas. More than 400 JSOWs have been used in combat operations, including Operation Iraqi Freedom.
"JSOW's battle-proven capability provides us with an unbeatable combination of affordability, lethality, survivability and standoff range," said Captain Mat Winter, the Navy's JSOW program manager. "The delivery of the 3,000th JSOW is a noteworthy accomplishment for this critical air-to-ground system because it demonstrates our trust in the reliability of the product."
JSOW contains next-generation technology that allows stealth engagement of high-value targets in heavily defended areas. Like its predecessors, the 3,000th JSOW has a modular design, allowing the weapon to deliver a variety of payloads.
The JSOW family uses a common and modular weapon body capable of carrying various payloads. It employs an integrated GPS/inertial navigation system that guides the weapon to the target and has a standoff range of approximately 70 nautical miles, allowing delivery from well outside the lethal range of most enemy air defenses. The JSOW-A variant dispenses combined-effect bomblets for use against soft and area targets.
The JSOW-C variant incorporates an imaging infrared seeker for high precision and uses a multi-stage warhead with both a blast fragmentation and hard target penetration capability for use against point targets. JSOW C-1, which recently entered the system design and development phase, has a maritime surface-attack capability and incorporates a data link that allows JSOW to respond to changing battlefield conditions.
("Raytheon Delivers 3,000th Joint Standoff Weapon to the U.S. Navy," Raytheon Press Release, November 9, 2007).
November 9, 2007:
A joint U.S. Congressional committee approves an aid package of $155 million for Israeli missile defense programs, including the Arrow anti ballistic missile, as well as the David's Sling rocket interception system. $98 million is slated for the Arrow program. $37 million of this sum will used to finance the joint production activity at Boeing Corp., and Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (IAI).
(Ron Dagoni, "US Congress Votes $155m for Israeli Missile Defense," Globes, November 8, 2007).
A joint U.S. Congressional committee approves an aid package of $155 million for Israeli missile defense programs, including the Arrow anti ballistic missile, as well as the David's Sling rocket interception system. $98 million is slated for the Arrow program. $37 million of this sum will used to finance the joint production activity at Boeing Corp., and Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (IAI).
(Ron Dagoni, "US Congress Votes $155m for Israeli Missile Defense," Globes, November 8, 2007).
November 9, 2007:
Deputy Saudi Defence Minister Prince Abdul-Rahman bin Abdul-Aziz: "We are here to discuss developing defence in the Gulf countries...In light of changing sources of threat, the rise of the terrorism danger and emerging regional powers...We must work hard to develop our armed forces so that they can secure regional stability and the safety of oil sources."
("Gulf Arabs Discuss Regional Defence Boost," Reuters, November 8, 2007).
Deputy Saudi Defence Minister Prince Abdul-Rahman bin Abdul-Aziz: "We are here to discuss developing defence in the Gulf countries...In light of changing sources of threat, the rise of the terrorism danger and emerging regional powers...We must work hard to develop our armed forces so that they can secure regional stability and the safety of oil sources."
("Gulf Arabs Discuss Regional Defence Boost," Reuters, November 8, 2007).
November 8, 2007:
The initial groundwork that should begin the construction for 'Training Base City' will begin in the next two weeks; the first building stage is supposed to take approximately 10 months. This week, the contractor who won the auction for the project will be declared. He will begin by leveling the ground in the area, and building the 'shooting range square,' a large advanced shooting range area near the city.
"We intend to bring in several civilian corporations from the Negev to assist in the work, in order to generate as many jobs as possible," explained the administrator of the Training Base City Council, Lieutenant Colonel Shalom Alfasi. "Even the sign which will declare the beginning of the works was made by a company from Beersheba. The process of involving the communities in the Negev can be clearly seen."
In the second stage of construction, the parking lots will be made, as well as the parks, and the driving instruction schools. This will be followed by living quarters and classrooms. Concurrently, the infrastructure works to connect the city to plumbing and electricity, as well as improving the roads and the public transportation will be made.
("Negev Construction Project to begin in Coming Weeks," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 8, 2007).
The initial groundwork that should begin the construction for 'Training Base City' will begin in the next two weeks; the first building stage is supposed to take approximately 10 months. This week, the contractor who won the auction for the project will be declared. He will begin by leveling the ground in the area, and building the 'shooting range square,' a large advanced shooting range area near the city.
"We intend to bring in several civilian corporations from the Negev to assist in the work, in order to generate as many jobs as possible," explained the administrator of the Training Base City Council, Lieutenant Colonel Shalom Alfasi. "Even the sign which will declare the beginning of the works was made by a company from Beersheba. The process of involving the communities in the Negev can be clearly seen."
In the second stage of construction, the parking lots will be made, as well as the parks, and the driving instruction schools. This will be followed by living quarters and classrooms. Concurrently, the infrastructure works to connect the city to plumbing and electricity, as well as improving the roads and the public transportation will be made.
("Negev Construction Project to begin in Coming Weeks," IDF Spokesperson's Office, November 8, 2007).
November 8, 2007:
National Infrastructure Minister Binyamin Ben Eliezer on the disengagement from Gaza: "I admit and confess...I was with those who strongly supported [former prime minister] Ariel Sharon, and today I say with my head held high: We erred, we made a very big mistake...There is a contradiction here between two disciplines...One nation is prepared to commit suicide and sees it as a mitzvah and an honor, and another wants to spare every ounce of blood."
("Ben Eliezer: Disengagement a Mistake," Jerusalem Post, November 8, 2007).
National Infrastructure Minister Binyamin Ben Eliezer on the disengagement from Gaza: "I admit and confess...I was with those who strongly supported [former prime minister] Ariel Sharon, and today I say with my head held high: We erred, we made a very big mistake...There is a contradiction here between two disciplines...One nation is prepared to commit suicide and sees it as a mitzvah and an honor, and another wants to spare every ounce of blood."
("Ben Eliezer: Disengagement a Mistake," Jerusalem Post, November 8, 2007).
November 8, 2007:
An IDF reserve soldier: "The [Hamas operatives] we killed weren't terrorists, they were soldiers...In a direct confrontation, the IDF has superiority over them, but in all parameters - training, equipment quality, operational discipline - we are facing an army, not gangs...On the professional level, Hamas in the Gaza Strip is nothing like the terrorists we dealt with before. We saw the bodies of their men after the incidents. They had elastic bands on their pant legs. How many reservists do you know in the IDF who are that well kitted out, with elastics on their pants?"
A veteran intelligence officer: "The fingerprints of Iran and Hizballah are all over it...The Palestinians never looked like this."
(Amos Harel, "IDF Reservists: Hamas Men Fight Like Soldiers," Ha'aretz, November 8, 2007).
An IDF reserve soldier: "The [Hamas operatives] we killed weren't terrorists, they were soldiers...In a direct confrontation, the IDF has superiority over them, but in all parameters - training, equipment quality, operational discipline - we are facing an army, not gangs...On the professional level, Hamas in the Gaza Strip is nothing like the terrorists we dealt with before. We saw the bodies of their men after the incidents. They had elastic bands on their pant legs. How many reservists do you know in the IDF who are that well kitted out, with elastics on their pants?"
A veteran intelligence officer: "The fingerprints of Iran and Hizballah are all over it...The Palestinians never looked like this."
(Amos Harel, "IDF Reservists: Hamas Men Fight Like Soldiers," Ha'aretz, November 8, 2007).
November 8, 2007:
- Lebanese Grand Ayatollah Mohammed Hussein Fadlallah (previously linked to Hizballah) notes that U.S. soldiers could end up "hostages in Iran's hands" in the case of an American strike against Teheran.
- Abdul Rahman bin Abdul Aziz, Saudi Arabia's deputy defense minister, notes that the armed forces of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are prepared for the possibility of an armed conflict between the United States and Iran. "This subject is under constant study between defence ministers as the countries of the Gulf have to be always ready for any emergency."
November 7, 2007:
The Boeing Company played a key role in today's successful test of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense weapon system, which intercepted two ballistic missile targets with two Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) missiles for the first time.
Fired simultaneously from the Aegis Guided Missile Cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG-70), the SM-3 Block IA missiles destroyed two short-range ballistic missile targets launched from the U.S. Navy's Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai, Hawaii. The test marked the 10th and 11th successful intercepts for the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense system's SM-3.
Boeing has partnered with Raytheon on SM-3 development since 1996 and builds and integrates several components of the SM-3 Kinetic Warhead.
"This successful dual engagement mission demonstrated unprecedented new capabilities for the warfighter," said Debra Rub-Zenko, vice
The Boeing Company played a key role in today's successful test of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense weapon system, which intercepted two ballistic missile targets with two Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) missiles for the first time.
Fired simultaneously from the Aegis Guided Missile Cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG-70), the SM-3 Block IA missiles destroyed two short-range ballistic missile targets launched from the U.S. Navy's Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai, Hawaii. The test marked the 10th and 11th successful intercepts for the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense system's SM-3.
Boeing has partnered with Raytheon on SM-3 development since 1996 and builds and integrates several components of the SM-3 Kinetic Warhead.
"This successful dual engagement mission demonstrated unprecedented new capabilities for the warfighter," said Debra Rub-Zenko, vice