Didn't El Al Already Have Missile Defense?

Remember that old rumor that Israel had installed missile defense systems onboard its aircraft? Well, later than we might have thought, the rumor turns out to be true.

Israeli television reports a handful of El Al's aircraft have been fitted by a subsidiary of Israel Aircraft Industries, Elta Systems Ltd., with a system called Flight Guard. Each installation cost the Israeli government $707,000. There was no indication in the report whether Israel's flag carrier had previously installed such systems, although that has long been rumored to be the case.

Reports indicate the Israeli government funded the initial installations. The number of aircraft involved is being held close to the vest. The Israeli television story comes just days after an El Al flight from Tel Aviv to Toronto was diverted twice because of missile threats originating in Canada. Israeli television reports future installations will be made at the expense of the airlines.

In spite of the cost, several unnamed airlines are reportedly interested in the Flight Guard system. But they've reportedly held off on closing deals until the system is certified by international and home-country aviation authorities.

ANN Correspondent Dave Bender contributed to this article from Jerusalem.

FMI: www.iai.co.il/STORAGE/files/2/25592.pdf