WORLD : Israel Tests U.S.-Backed Rocket
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JERUSALEM — In a dramatic response to Iraqi threats, Israel today launched the first test of the U.S.-financed Arrow missile that is being developed to combat short-range ballistic missiles.
Israel radio said the missile was launched at 3:40 p.m. at an undisclosed location. It left a short trail of fire and a small ring of smoke, said a radio reporter.
The radio report said the launch was a direct response to Iraqi President Saddam Hussein’s threat on Wednesday to launch a missile attack on Israel. Saddam made the threat after alleging that Israeli warplanes had been painted with American colors in preparation for an attack on Iraq.
Today’s missile launching was attended by officials from Israel Aircraft Industries, which is developing the Arrow, and by American representatives, the report said.
Washington provided 80% of the $158-million cost of the first phase of the project.
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