Systems in Israel’s F-15 Jets Upgraded for Long Distance Attacks

Arutz Sheva ^ | June 28, '09 | Gil Ronen

[Alamo-Girl]

Thanks for the ping!

[Centurion2000]

Most importantly if Israel fights, they will fight alone. In 1973 Israel only survived because the US staged the largest airlift since Berlin to fly in tanks, helicopters, but especially ammunition. At one point before the attack in the Golan was contained Israel's supply of 155 mm shells was literally being measured in hours. Such an airlift is not going to happen this time.

Then Israel will go nuclear and end the threat against them for the next 1000 years.

[ctdonath2]

I’m wondering if a flight back is necessarily part of the plan.

Having just seen “Munich”, the philosophy of “here’s your task, you’re on your own now” is historically not off the table.

[Evil Slayer]

I believe you are right about that. I have read articles on the same subject. Israel is a nation that will sacrifice for God if that means destroying the enemies of God in the face of their own destruction. God has a way of intervening though. He has done so several times before in behalf of Israel.

[MestaMachine]

There is also the famous, or infamous, depending on whose ox is being gored, Samson option. If Israel doesn’t survive, no one around them does either.
I don’t think it will come to that, but I am really wondering what the US will do with 0 in charge if Israel goes on its own. Would the US attack Israel? Would the military follow that order if it was given?

[ctdonath2]

There’s a difference between “you’re on your own” and suicide; the “Samson option” (interesting term) is the latter.

I’m not really sure what could possibly persuade BHO to pursue a military option.

Good questions, nuanced context. Will think about it.

[GonzoGOP]

Hopefully Israel learned several things from this almost disaster - pre-emption trumps PR, stockpile parts, and don’t depend on anyone.

I sure hope so. Its just that I saw them making the same mistakes when they went into Lebanon and Gaza. Playing for PR instead of annihilating their enemy. Waiting too long to strike. Then when the enemy is finally beaten not finishing them off.

And yes I know that was Olmert, and Benjamin Netanyahu is a much different leader. However the closeness of his election means that there are almost as many people in Israel living as if it was October 5 1973 as there are in the US living as if it was September 10 2001.

[MestaMachine]

“I’m not really sure what could possibly persuade BHO to pursue a military option.”

He’s a muslim for one. He hates Israel and Jews for 2. He’s in the tank for Iran for 3. (He would be their new prophet if he attacked Israel.) The royal Sauds would probably adopt him for 4. And I don’t think he really needs a reason. He’s nuts.

[Mr. Mojo]

Another problem that Israel has is no bunker busting bombs.

Sept. 2008: U.S. to Sell Israel Bunker-Busters, May Be Used in Strike on Iran

JERUSALEM — The U.S. has agreed to sell 1,000 buster-bunker bombs to Israel — a deal that could significantly improve Israel's ability to strike at Iran's nuclear facilities.

[dervish]

I think Gaza and Lebanon are very different. Lebanon was an embarassing flop due to a terrible Defense Minister with no experience (Amir Perez) who gave the job to the air force.

Gaza operation was a big success, zero Israeli deaths, much reduced missiles, although they should have done more to get Gilad Schalit back. Gaza was run by Ehud Barak, a lefty but a great general,Israel’s most decorated. Netanyahu kept him on as Defense Minister with an eye on Iran perhaps.

Barak’s background is special forces (Sayeret Matkal). He was head of Sayeret Matkal when they went after three Munich perps in Beirut. Part of that team was Yoni Netanyahu, Bibi’s younger brother. Bibi also served in Sayeret under Barak.

I think Israel may have pulled something under the radar in Gaza. I suspect they took some high value hostages to barter for Schalit. Maybe just wishful thinking.

[SunkenCiv]

I don’t have any problem (or any pull around here), I merely cross-linked the topics. :’)

[Old Teufel Hunden]

That report contradicts what was put out earlier this year:

http://www.boston.com/news/world/middleeast/articles/2009/01/11/us_denied_israeli_bid_for_bunker_buster_bombs/
"President Bush deflected a secret request by Israel last year for specialized bunker-busting bombs it wanted for an attack on Iran's main nuclear complex"

I don't know, I'm confused!! Maybe it's confusing the Iranians also...

[MestaMachine]

(IsraelNN.com) The Israeli navy has dropped plans to purchase U.S. made warships and instead is exploring the possibility of a home-grown military shipbuilding industry, according to the website of Defense News.