Is Israel in Danger of Losing Its Military Edge?
JERUSALEM, Israel – Israel could lose its military edge as neighboring countries continue arms buildups, Israeli Air Force chief Brig.-Gen. Tal Kalman says.
Speaking to participants at the Fisher Institute for Air and Space Strategic Studies' conference in Tel Aviv, Kalman said the regional arms buildup could undermine Israel's cutting-edge advantage.
International military deals are creating an arms race in the region, which coupled with instability in many neighboring countries, creates a potentially dangerous situation for Israel.
The U.S.-led Iranian nuclear deal and the $150 billion cash influx to the Islamic Republic have made huge sums available to unstable governments in the region. Iran, the world's largest state sponsor of terrorism, has played a key role in many deadly terror attacks worldwide.
Meanwhile, the Israeli government has not accepted the Obama administration's new 10-year memorandum of understanding on security aid.
Israel is seeking an increase of $1.6 billion in the 10-year military aid package, based on increasing security needs in the region.
Talks between the two allies continue, as evidenced by the recent visit of Vice President Joe Biden to Israel and periodic meetings between Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon and U.S. Defense Secretary Ashton Carter.
