Darwin, October 29: Australia is considering purchasing missile interceptor systems developed for Israel’s Iron Dome air defence system as the country moves to strengthen its air and missile defence capabilities, according to defence officials.

Australian defence officials told a parliamentary committee that the country aims to establish a ground-based missile defence system by the early 2030s, citing the rapidly changing nature of warfare in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Discussions are underway regarding the potential acquisition of the US-made Patriot missile defence system and interceptor missiles developed by Israeli defence company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems for the Iron Dome. The Israeli-developed technology is also being used in a new air defence system for the US Marine Corps, with production involving US company Raytheon.

The US Marines tested truck-mounted, medium-range interceptors in Guam in June during a regional military exercise that Australia also participated in.

Australian government minister Murray Watt told the parliamentary committee that the government would seek to acquire the most suitable military technology for the country’s defence needs.

Air Marshal Robert Chipman said the Australian Defence Force would make recommendations to the government next year following a competitive selection process linked to the Talisman Sabre military exercise scheduled for 2027.

The proposed acquisition comes as Australia seeks to strengthen protection for military bases and deployed forces against missile and aerial threats. Defence officials have also raised concerns about a sharp increase in drone incursions over military bases, from 19 incidents in 2022 to 204 last year.

Celia Perkins, deputy secretary for defence, said authorities were concerned about distinguishing between harmless drone activity by teenagers and more serious security threats. She also noted a significant increase in drone activity.

Australia does not supply weapons to Israel, and the potential purchase of Israeli defence technology could attract political scrutiny amid ongoing debate over the country’s defence ties with Israel.

The procurement process is part of Australia’s broader effort to develop a ground-based, medium-range air defence capability, with a system expected to become operational in the early 2030s.

Source: The Times of Israel (AFP)