Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) has won first place in the
prestigious Flight International award for its Arrow anti-
ballistic missile system.
"It is an outstanding achievement because it is a very
important event in our industry. It is given out every two
years. This time we are number one," President and CEO Moshe
Keret told The Jerusalem Post.
Top aviation experts from around the world judged the prize,
which is considered the most prestigious award of the
aviation business.
The Arrow is the first such missile protection system in the
world. It began operation in the IAF about a year ago after
over a decade of development.
IAI won the civilian category last year in Singapore for its
Galaxy mid- size business jet.
"Year after year when you look at our record it brings us
prestige and that brings business later on. First and
foremost it is a recognition of our excellence," Keret
said.
Thousands of visitors have come by the Israeli pavilions at
the French Air Expo, with many, including representatives
from Israel's neighbors, taking a close look at the
Arrow.
"We have neighbors of ours who are looking, but only out of
curiosity," Keret said, adding that the Air Show presented a
great opportunity to make contacts and deals.
