President Shimon Peres on Tuesday, 18 Cheshvan 5774, visited the Palmachim Air force Base, along with IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Benny Gantz and Air Force Commander Major-General Amir Eshel. The visit began with a comprehensive briefing by the by Gantz and Eshel along with squadron commanders on the air force’s strategic and tactical operations.

During a review of UAV’s, President Peres noted, “Not all of the IDF’s and the Air Force’s strength is open to view. Whoever derides us and seeks to harass us should take this into account.” The President continued, “I am very proud of the soldiers and commanders of the Air Force in particular and the entire IDF in general. The Israeli Air Force is the best air force in the world; we have unique systems. The air force is equipped the most advanced technology and – most importantly – with dedicated and qualitative human capital. The Israeli Air Force will never be satisfied with how it is and is always looking toward the future and its challenges. You are a branch with heavy responsibility on your shoulders and this shows tactical and strategic results daily.”

Gantz added, “Today, Israel faces many challenges in all ranges and in the skies as well. We are ready 365 days a year, at any range and in the face of any challenge. We know how to give intelligence, operational and tactical responses against any threat. The air force is the main system for deterrence, offensive and defensive action, and has fantastic technological abilities as may be required of such a qualitative body. Israel has good reason to be proud of its air force.”

The air force chief added, “The air force is the IDF’s decisive arm, and arm of deterrence and defense. It rests on a combination of exceptionally talented and dedicated people. Today, its aerial strength, flexibility and capabilities are more relevant than ever.”

President Peres also inspected the air force’s most advanced technological developments and was briefed on its operational achievements and future challenges. He also held a question-and-answer session with an elite group of approximately 15 soldiers selected by the Eshek, who represented the full spectrum of the Air Force’s capabilities, missions and operations. The President told the soldiers, “The air force’s human capital is what makes it unique and makes it the best air force in the world. I am very proud of you. Keep up the good work.”

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)