Israel Debates Deterrence Vs. Cost On F-35

By David A. Fulghum

TEL AVIV and JERUSALEM — Critics contend that the planned Israeli money for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, estimated at about $2.75 billion for the first 19 aircraft, could be better used upgrading conventional, non-stealthy aircraft with long-range, high-speed stealthy weapons and sensors with the range to support such attacks.

Analysts suggest that attack helicopters and intelligence ...

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