Netanyahu says project to counter drone threat underway, but ‘will take time’

Amid a spike in Hezbollah drone strikes against IDF troops in southern Lebanon, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that he has initiated a counter-drone project.

“A few weeks ago, I ordered the establishment of a special project to counter the drone threat,” he says in a video statement, “and already today I will be presented with a progress report on the matter.”

“It will take time — but we are on it,” he insists.

Netanyahu says that defense procurement will focus on expanding Israel’s capabilities and its independence.

“We are acquiring two squadrons of advanced aircraft, F-35 and F-15IA,” he says. “These aircraft reinforce Israel’s overwhelming air superiority, a superiority that was proven in Operation Rising Lion and now in Operation Roaring Lion.”

“Our pilots can reach anywhere in the skies of Iran, and they are prepared to do so — if required,” he says.

“Regarding independence,” Netanyahu continues, “I have instructed investment in domestic production capabilities for munitions.”

Israel will add NIS 350 billion to the defense budget over the next decade to produce munitions domestically, he says.

Netanyahu adds that Israel will also develop “groundbreaking aircraft made in Israel” that “will change the entire picture.” He does not indicate whether he is referring to drones or manned aircraft.