The Iron Domerocket defense system passed its final tests on Monday, including shooting down simultaneous Kassam rockets. The first two batteries will be deployed by November.The Iron Dome system tracks incoming rockets, intercepts and destroys them far from their targets.
The system is seen as a main component in Israel's defense against the homemade and imported rockets fired by Palestinian militants in Gaza, as well as the longer range rockets in the hands of Hizbullah guerrillas on Israel's border with Lebanon.
The statement said the successful tests involved multiple incoming targets and coordination with other air force systems.The Iron Dome system, developed by Israeli defense contractor Rafael, cost about $200 million.