About a month ago, Israel’s air force introduced a new fleet of huge planes that are capable of remaining in the air for nearly twenty-four hours and can fly as far as the Persian Gulf, thus putting Iran in range. But, these aircraft are different---they fly unmanned. These aircraft are the size of the big Boeing passenger planes and are primarily used for surveillance, but they can also carry diverse payloads when necessary. The drones can fly higher than Israel’s predecessor, the Heron, and has the capability to reach altitudes of more than 40,000 feet.
According to a story from ABC News, Brig. Gen Amikam Norkin, the commander of the base that will operate the drones said, "With the inauguration of the Heron TP, we are realizing the air force's dream," he said. "The Heron TP is a technological and operational breakthrough." Refusing to elaborate on the number of drones, the commander of Israel's air force, Maj. Gen. Ido Nehushtan said the aircraft "has the potential to be able to conduct new missions down the line as they become relevant." In addition to surveillance, the drones can jam enemy communications, connect ground control, attack targets with guided missiles and reduce the potential of an effective bombing campaign against Israel. The drones can give the soldiers on the ground eyes in the sky as it sends information to troops about future obstacles. Most of all, the drones can fly over a larger area and do so on a continuing basis. The military says the huge new drone will give an added element to Israel's ability to control its borders. Israel is considered a world leader in drone technology, exporting these unmanned drones to the United States. It is interesting that just recently; Russia purchased drones from Israel valued at approximately $49 million.
This new technology Israel unveiled has special meaning. On April eleventh Jews will commemorate Yom Ha-Shoah also known as Holocaust Remembrance Day. Thus, each year Jews memorialize the lives and heroism of those who died in the Holocaust between 1933 and 1945 by lighting candles and reciting the Kaddishprayer. Hopefully, the Heron TP flying over Israel’s territory and beyond will enhance the safety and security of Jews everywhere.
On a personal note, I want to thank Dr. Cathy Glick, Jackie Liebowitz, Bunee Morrison, Nancy Demeter, Ellie Berman, Rose Morrison and David Frank who led adult education classes during my absence. I am pleased that they were all received so warmly; and the messages they shared were both informative and helpful.
Dr. Jonathan V. Plaut
Rabbi
