IDF prepares for budget cuts
Plans and Policy Directorate deliberates over impending cuts, expected to affect antitank missile systems, Iron Dome, social projects; 'IDF will be able to handle the cut if it spreads over the next few years' official with directorate says
Senior official within the IDF Plans and Policy Directorate told Ynet that the annual budgetary assessments are expected to change due to recent developments in Gaza and the West Bank.
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Additionally, the Israeli army is also preparing for possible fighting with Hezbollah in Lebanon and overspill of the war in Syria.
Antitank missile systems, which cost millions of shekels, are rumored to be the first on the chopping block.
A critical issue facing the IDF is Iran's nuclear program, and a possible preemptive strike initiated by Israel, in regards to which, "The end of the year will bring us closer to a decision on the matter," the source noted.
The source added that as part of an initiative to increase efficiency within the IDF, some 1,500 officers are expected to retire in June, "as part of a program which saved NIS 700 million (approximately $192 million) last year and will reach NIS 8 billion (about $2 billion) by 2017."
The uncertainties may also halt the purchasing of additional missiles for the Iron Dome System. In response to such a cut, the source said: "Let's ask the mother from Kiryat Malachi if she prefers Iron Dome by her house or something else. The Iron Dome has become a social necessity more than a military one."
As for social projects, such as funding education and public transportation for soldiers or might also face cuts.
According to the source, "In light of strategic changes, we will be able to handle the cut of a few billions, but only if it's spread out over the next few years and not just in one year."
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