Despite objections from IDF officials, Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon has canceled the planned purchase of six Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey aircraft. Israel was to have been the first nation other than the United States to receive the tiltroter aircraft which is capable of both a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) as well as short takeoff and landing (STOL).

The V-22 is designed to combine the functionality of a conventional helicopter with the long-range, high-speed cruise performance of a turboprop aircraft.

The approval for the deal was received in April 2013 from US Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel during the secretary’s first visit to Israel. The approval was part a larger package that included refueling and transport aircraft and more, valued at $10 billion.

The aircraft would permit the IDF to transport forces longer distances and thereby extend the military’s reach. Ya’alon was a passenger on a V-22 during one of his visits to the USA and he was full of praise for the aircraft and its unique abilities. However today’s budgetary realities and the recent warfare in Gaza. Ya’alon is buying more armored personnel carriers and other weaponry and as a result, and it appears he is compelled to cancel the V-22 deal due to budgetary limitations. Ya’alon is also considering a second purchase of The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter plane, signaling this deal is likely. A first deal for the next generation fighter craft was closed some time ago and the first F-35s is expected in Israel in two years. Ya’alon’s office has instructed the IDF to take a close look at the military’s needs following Operation Protective Edge in Gaza.

While the report of the cancelled V-22 deal is appearing in many media sources, officials in the IDF, Defense Ministry and Prime Minister’s Office decline comment.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)