Reports indicated that Israel was seeking to purchase the Vulcan-Phalanx missile interception systems from the United States. Israeli Defence Minister Ehud Barak told reporters that the system will be “part of a multi-layer defence to intercept rockets1.” While the Phalanx radar can track missiles, the 20 millimeter Vulcan Gatling gun that intercepts them. The system was expected to cost abut $25 million.

Past attempts by Israel to purchase the system have been turned down by the US. Defence Minister Barak was expected to make the request to buy the system during his official visit to the US in June 2009. The system will in all probability be used to intercept Qassam rockets fired by Hamas from the Gaza Strip.

• 1. “Israel Wants to Buy US Rocket Intercept System,” Agence France-Presse, April 21, 2009, at http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5h-OK4o9cYko_xLIyXM4D2...