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World Jewish News
Russian-Israeli Aircraft Game of Mutual Profit
14.04.2009
News of the first contract for sale of Israeli pilotless aircrafts to Russia confirms the convergence of the two countries. But what stands behind this agreement? - asks the journalist of L'Express Mark Epstein.
L'Express, with reference to Israeli Haaretz newspaper, reports that Israel has agreed to sell its drones to Russia, because the latter expressed willingness to abandon the delivery of S-300 air defense systems to Iran. But the poignancy of this deal lies in the following detail: while announcing the signing of the contract, the Deputy Minister of Defense decided to emphasize that Russia is buying planes, not to fight, but to "test their opportunities." The English translation of this news suggests that the aim of Moscow is to explore the Israeli vehicles in order to improve Russian pilotless aircrafts, which do not meet modern requirements.
Thus, the publication concludes that Israel allows Russia to copy its technology, or at least take it for a sample. And Moscow has openly acknowledged this. Both Israel and Russia are concluding a mutually beneficial deal. Israel has assured that S-300 are not supplied to Iran, and Russia has found a way to make a significant technological leap for some 50 million dollars. "A true gift," notes the publication. "In doing so, Russia reinforces the isolation of Iran, its main competitor on the gas market. While in 2006, the issue of strategic partnership between the two countries was on the agenda."
There is no doubt, writes Mark Epstein in the conclusion, that for both Russia and Israel this first military contract is indeed mutually beneficial.
Mark Epstein
Source: L'Express
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