WASHINGTON, D.C. (Press Release) — The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has applauded the U.S. House of Representatives for authorizing a total of $500 million for U.S.-Israel missile defense cooperation and continued authorization of up to $50 million for U.S.-Israel counter-tunnel cooperation in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
These funds will provide both R&D support and procurement funding for the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 cooperative missile defense systems—programs which help Israel defend its citizens against rockets and missiles and also advance America’s own missile defense capabilities. Additionally, these funds provide R&D support for the two countries to continue working together on critical counter-tunnel cooperation as this threat persists from terrorist organizations.
The legislation also authorizes the development and implementation of a strategy working with foreign partners to counter Iran’s destabilizing activities.
AIPAC commends the leadership of House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mac Thornberry (R-TX) and Ranking Member Adam Smith (D-WA), House Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces Chairman Mike Rogers (R-AL) and Ranking Member Jim Cooper (D-TN), and House Armed Services Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities Chairwoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY) and Ranking Member James Langevin (D-RI).
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Preceding provided by AIPAC