U.S. Oks Sale of David’s Sling Weapon System to Finland

Israel’s Defense Ministry said the U.S. greenlit the sale of the David’s Sling medium-range missile defense system to Finland for €316 million ($344 million).

A statement from the ministry said that the U.S. State Department recently notified Israeli officials including Defense Minister Yoav Gallant of the approval.

Washington’s approval was needed as its missile defense organization and the American Raytheon defense firm were involved in developing the David's Sling along with Israel’s Rafael.

Director-General Eyal Zamir stated, "[The Defense Ministry] will closely cooperate with the U.S. government throughout the entire process. We are hopeful that Finland's expression of confidence in the Israeli missile defense system, along with the American approval of the sale, will encourage additional European countries to enhance cooperation with Israel's defense establishment and defense industries."

David’s Sling offers protection against large-calibre rockets, short-range ballistic missiles, and other developing threats. It's scheduled to be operational in two weeks.