As the Trachtenberg Committee prepares to release its report, defense establishment officials are warning a proposed NIS 3 billion cut in the defense budget would have a devastating impact on the IDF and weapons development programs.

Officials are warning that if such a cut is implemented, it will spell the end of weapons development, including the Iron Dome rocket defense system in addition to the Arrow Missile system for future development of the long-range ballistic missiles.

According to IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Benny Gantz and other General Staff officials, such a sizable cut would leave the military without the means to maintain day-to-day operations, including equipment and uniforms for reservists, ammunition for training operations and it would actually result in the elimination of some units entirely.

Officials are warning such a cut would leave Israel without the means to defend itself against attacks from Lebanon and Syria.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)